This document has come to our attention in June 2010. It dates back to 2008 (?) and is certainly worth some attention. It should be noted that back then the proposal did not receive an answer. But the times they are a'changin.
Katherine Iglis
Attn: Julie Eizenberg, Architect
Re: Sustainability Proposal for John Adams
GOALS: To implement a sustainability program at John Adams in accordance with the BB requirement, to alleviate the school's traffic and parking problems, to improve the school’s effectiveness, to invigorate and unify the school community.
PROPOSAL: Transform John Adams into a Cycling-Centric School by altering the campus as necessary and developing a PRO-CYCLING curriculum. Provide the necessary infrastructure, incentives and equipment (loaner bikes and safety equipment if necessary) to get students, staff and parents to embrace cycling as an integral part of daily life.
A NATURAL FIT: John Adams’ central location, benign climate and flat terrain make it an ideal cycling destination. Likewise, the age of its students provides an ideal opportunity. Pre-teens and teens are able to ride responsibly and crave the freedom and independence that cycling provides. Forming cycling habits now can benefit them for years to come – steering them (and their parents!) away from dependence on the automobile.
HOW TO: Make use of and expand upon the recently installed bike lanes along Ocean Park Blvd. Develop our own “Safe Paths to School” program where certain routes are designated with appropriate signs and traffic controls making them safe for cyclists. Establish a secure and accessible “Bike Zone” on campus. Possibly even convert 16th St. between Ocean Park Blvd. and Pearl St. to a Bikes-Only Zone feeding John Adams as well as Will Rogers Elementary and Santa Monica College. Basically, establish JAMS as a neighborhood cycling hub.
ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS: Increased cycling would reduce traffic, emissions, fuel consumption, parking problems and pedestrian danger. Rather than battling the City for more street parking or consuming more of the campus with asphalt, existing parking lots could be converted back into usable green space. The City, local businesses, and local environmental groups could help support the program by providing sponsorship, grants and other incentives.
FITNESS BENEFITS: Cycling improves cardiovascular health, strength and endurance while boosting endomorphins, staving off depression and controlling weight gain. Students would arrive at school more alert and ready to learn after a brisk ride. Adults who cycle would also benefit while providing the students with positive role models. Electric, motor-assisted bikes or scooters could be provided for handicapped or elderly members of the school community. Lastly, since John Adams already has a system of two sets of books, heavy backpacks would not impede the student riders.
ACADEMIC BENEFITS: Cycling could be incorporated into the curriculum with lessons on aerodynamics, hydraulics, bike engineering, bike mechanics and design. This could be further reinforced with cycling day trips, field trips and retreats. A cycling coach could be employed and a cycling team started. Bike “shop” could be offered as an elective giving students hands-on experience fixing, maintaining and assembling bikes.
EMOTIONAL BENEFITS: Cycling develops independence and self-esteem among young teens when they need it most. Rather than depending on their parents or the public bus for transportation, middle school students would feel empowered and exhilarated navigating their way around town on a bike.
SOCIAL BENEFITS: Cycling is fun and promotes camaraderie. Sponsor school cycling clubs such as a Mountain Biking Club, a Road Biking Club, a Beach Cruiser Club, a Trick-bike Club, a Bike Maintenance Club and host a bike design competition. Participation in these clubs could be rewarded with Academic, PE, or community service credit.
NEIGHBORHOOD BENEFITS: Bike routes used by students could also be used by others in the neighborhood. The school bike repair “Shop” could also be open to the local community. Students could operate the shop, gain work experience and/or community service hours all while benefiting the community and possibly raising money for the program.
INSPIRATIONAL WEBSITES:
Celebrating Cycling
Fun Fast Fit
Community Cycling Center
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