Torrance resident Kyle Richardson and his two children have been riding their bikes to school since day care — something that has become a “treasured tradition.”

But Richardson was “struck” by the sight of an empty bike rack when his children started at Carr Elementary School.

“The (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recommends at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day for both kids and adults, and the best way to reach that goal is to build movement into everyday routines,” Richardson said. “Riding to school isn’t just exercise; it helps students arrive alert and focused, builds independence and fosters a sense of connection with their community.”

So Richardson created the North Torrance Bike Bus, a group of more than 25 Carr Elementary School students who ride their bikes together toward the campus — ringing bells and waving to neighbors every Friday morning.

Richardson worked to find the safest route to use and invited families to join in the spring.

“In 1969, 48% of children walked or biked to school,” Richardson said. “In 2021, only 11% of children walked or biked to school. This trend causes increased congestion and pollution. School drop-off represents over 20% of morning commute traffic. When we bike together, we show our children there is an alternative to gridlock. We show our children they are strong, independent and powerful. We show our children that roads can be filled with joy and community.”

Parents of children who participate in Bike Bus said they joined for a number of reasons, including reducing their carbon footprint, building community and enjoying the outdoors.

“The route is designed for safety while ensuring that all neighborhood students can join in,” Richardson said. “Organizers hope the effort inspires more families to ditch the car line and create their own Bike Buses across Torrance and the South Bay.”

For more information on the North Torrance Bike Bus, go to the group’s Instagram page, northtorrancebikebus.