On Oct. 23, 2025, Upper Explorerland’s Safe Routes to School program hosted the Wheels in Motion Workshop at Luther College’s Center for Faith and Life.

Featuring League Cycling Instructor Bill Smith, the event brought together law enforcement, parks and recreation professionals, county conservation staff, city officials, bike enthusiasts and community members to advance safe bicycling in small towns and rural areas in Allamakee, Clayton, Fayette, Howard and Winneshiek counties.

Participants engaged in interactive discussions on bicycle safety, brainstormed strategies to elevate biking for transportation and community well-being, and took part in an optional ride on Decorah’s Trout Run Trail.

"This event was about more than bike safety—it’s also about building healthier, more connected communities," said Safe Routes Coordinator April Bril, who encouraged public leaders and community members to get involved by completing the "Wheels in Motion: Continuing the Conversation" survey at https://forms.gle/Zoy84qosjdi8T8Lu5.

For more information about the Safe Routes to School program or the survey, visit the Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission website or contact Bril at abril@uerpc.org.