Refurbished bicycles available from RideWise for adults needing transportation

ridewise_bike_connect — Marc Cianfrone (right) owner of Pop’s Bike Shop presents Kevin Gray with his new ride to work.

RideWise, the transportation advocacy organization located in Bridgewater, has several refurbished bicycles available for adults who need transportation for employment through the agency’s BikeConnect program. Any adult who receives services from a Somerset County nonprofit or human services agency is eligible for a bike.

“Any nonprofit organization can refer individuals to RideWise by completing an application online at www.ridewise.org,” said Executive Director, Donna Allison. “We’ve accepted client referrals from Work First New Jersey, the Somerset County Board of Social Services, and the Greater Somerset County YMCA for bikes.”

The bicycles, donated by residents, have been inspected, cleaned, and repaired by Pop’s Bike Shop in Somerville. In addition to making repairs, the team at Pop’s outfits each bicycle with a bell and lights to comply with New Jersey biking laws, along with a helmet and bicycle lock. Bicycle recipients also receive a brief cycling safety session from RideWise.

The BikeConnect program is a partnership between RideWise and Pop’s Bike Shop, with RideWise soliciting bicycle donations and paying for the repairs made by Pop’s. The program is supported by funding from the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority and the Federal Highway Administration.

A woman with short, blue hair and a red sweater with a bicycle. — Colleen, who will ride her bike to her job at the YMCA, stopped by to pick up her refurbished bike and receive a short bicycle safety skills session.

“Right now, there are repaired bicycles at RideWise ready for adult recipients and several more awaiting repairs at Pop’s. Eleven bicycles have been donated to RideWise to date,” said Donna Allison.

RideWise accepts bicycle donations by appointment only, Monday through Friday. Contact staff@ridewise.org or call (908) 704-1011 ext. 16 to arrange a bicycle inspection and drop off.

RideWise Inc. is a Bridgewater-based nonprofit organization that promotes efficient and sustainable travel options. The agency partners with businesses, schools, nonprofits, and communities to address mobility issues through education and advocacy. Visit the agency’s website at www.ridewise.org

Pop’s Bike Shop is a local family-owned business with locations in Bound Brook and Somerville. Owner Marc Cianfrone has managed various bicycle shops in the area since 1984. Pop’s prides itself on meeting customers’ needs, ranging from family riders to commuters to cycling enthusiasts and racers. Visit the store website at www.popsbikeshop.com.