Texas was ranked thirty-second out of all fifty states in regards to bike safety, meaning that the state experiences far more biking-related injuries and fatalities than most other states in the US. In addition, Texas is also the leading state in Carbon Dioxide emissions, with 83% of those emissions coming from transportation- especially vehicle exhaust. Studies have shown that 81% of people would be more comfortable riding- or letting their children ride- if there was a bike lane in their community. It has also been proven that, although walking and cycling exercise the same muscles, cycling helps to gain muscle faster and to improve weight loss.

In August of 2023, we experienced a heartbreaking loss when a young Middle School student- a classmate of ours- was fatally struck while riding her bike in Southlake, Texas. This tragedy left a lasting impact, and in response, we have committed ourselves to making a difference. Our project proposes the addition of bike lanes along Welch Road. These lanes would potentially protect the students, faculty, and staff of a broad network of schools including but not limited to: The Hockaday School, The Lamplighter School, Good Shepherd Episcopal School, Nathan Adams, E.D. Walker, Jesuit, and W.T. White High School.

If action is not taken immediately, who knows how many more innocent children will have their lives taken too soon because they were unable to ride their bikes safely. Although significant safety advances have been made in the automotive business, drivers are not always the most responsible when on the road- often texting while driving- and endangering pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers near them. In conclusion, a bike lane on Welch Road would allow for a safer biking and driving experience for students and teachers, reduce congestion during peak transportation hours, and improve the health and fitness of cyclists who would use the lane.