Lake Ave Elementary in Saratoga Springs has relaunched its bike‑commuting initiative as the new school year begins in September 2026. The program, known locally as the Toga Bike Bus, offers a structured, group‑led ride to and from school for students and their parents, emphasizing safe routes and active transportation.
The revived effort brings together families who choose to bike instead of drive, creating a community‑focused alternative to the school parking lot. Participants travel together along pre‑identified paths that have been reviewed for safety, allowing experienced riders to guide younger cyclists. By traveling in a group, students benefit from increased visibility to motorists and a shared sense of responsibility for following traffic rules.
Organizers of the bike bus stress that the program aligns with broader goals of encouraging healthier lifestyles and reducing vehicle traffic around the school. The return of the initiative reflects a continued commitment by the school and local stakeholders to support active transportation options for children. Parents are encouraged to sign up their children and to volunteer as route leaders, fostering a collaborative environment that reinforces safe cycling habits.
The Toga Bike Bus has been part of the school’s annual programming in past years, and its reinstatement this fall signals a renewed focus on community involvement. While the exact number of participants has not been disclosed, the program is open to all students who are comfortable riding a bicycle and have parental support. Safety measures, such as helmet checks and route briefings, are incorporated into each ride to ensure that students are prepared for the journey.
As the school year gets underway, the bike bus is set to provide a reliable, eco‑friendly transportation option for Lake Ave Elementary families, reinforcing the town’s dedication to safe, active travel for its youngest residents.