The celebration will take place from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 14, at the Township Building, 600 Landmeier Road in Elk Grove Village. Food and refreshments will be provided, along with tours of the new courses and the township’s new Youth Programs/Community Room.
The Elk Grove Village Fire Department plans to have a fire truck on site for touring. The Elk Grove and Mount Prospect police departments are also planning on having representation, giveaways and patrol cars on site. Township staff will be on-site to answer any questions and discuss upcoming township programs and services.
Both courses have been closed for three years as the township relocated its offices from the south side of Arlington Heights to Elk Grove Village. The township started conducting bike safety classes more than 50 years ago. The classes teach local youths the bicycle rules of the road and important safety measures. The Challenge Course has been used for almost 30 years by the township Youth Services team. It is an essential part of the township’s many youth empowerment courses that focus on the strengthening of communication skills, problem-solving and teamwork.
“The long-awaited grand reopening of our Challenge and Bicycle Safety courses, which were very popular at our former location, has finally arrived,” said Elk Grove Township Supervisor George Busse. “These courses provide a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about bike safety when out on our roads and gives them the chance to gain valuable social and interpersonal skills through our Youth Groups. We are thrilled to be able to reintroduce and provide these important services for our younger community members.”
Starting in 2025, Bicycle Safety courses will be held monthly during the summer and for elementary schools upon request during the spring and fall. Open bike rides are already available to township families, free of charge, on select Saturdays through the end of summer. Information about open ride days is available on the township website and social media pages. Residents can also call (224) 265-6118.
The Challenge Course has been a teen favorite and includes a low-rope course that propels participants through physical challenges and activities. The goal is to offer a unique environment for children and teens to explore their strengths, work collaboratively, and overcome challenges. Groups work interactively to tackle obstacles that require strategic thinking to find solutions.
Donations are currently being accepted for new and gently used bicycles and helmets for use on the courses. Donations can be made at the township during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast or someone with a spare bike, your support can make a difference in promoting bicycle safety and strengthening essential social skills for our community’s youth.
Those who plan to attend the Grand Opening can park in the township parking lot. Additional parking will be available across the street from the township at Three J’s Industries, Nissei America and Janome Industrial Equipment USA.
To learn more about this event and the Challenge and Bicycle Safety courses, visit elkgrovetownship.com and follow the township on Social Media.
