Founded in 2013, the Wheat Ridge Active Transportation Advisory Team (“the mighty ATATs”) is a citizen-led organization that works with residents, city leadership, businesses and partner organizations to increase opportunities to walk, to ride a bike, and to connect with transit in Wheat Ridge. The ATATs work to promote and develop a physically and economically vibrant community where people of all ages and abilities can maintain safe, healthy and connected lives through easy and equitable access to active transportation options.
The ATATs’ activities fall into three categories:
Community
Throughout the year, we organize informative and fun meetings open to all, encouraging engaged community members to discuss ideas, concerns and opportunities. Community engagement has included sponsorship of Movies on the Ridge, Bike to Work Day events, and delivering used books to Title I schools through the Ride for Reading program. With financial support from the community, we have purchased and upgraded the “CycleTrooper,” a multi-purpose pedicab bicycle that can be used to transport community members who can’t independently ride a bicycle, as well as transport equipment needed to perform free and low-cost bike repairs in underserved neighborhoods. The ATATs have also donated 12 refurbished bikes to members of our community since 2020.
Advocacy
The ATATs collaborate with city staff, elected leaders, partner organizations and individuals to identify, develop and implement active transportation facilities and programs. As part of its advocacy efforts, the ATATs have given input on the development of bike lanes in the city, were involved in preparation of the 2017 Wheat Ridge Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan Update, and have provided support for the city’s applications for grants for trail improvements and other related projects.
Social
We believe active communities are connected communities, which is why we facilitate as many points of connection as possible. Although 2020 put a temporary halt to in-person social activities, we have since restarted the summer cruiser rides in conjunction with Localworks and hope to have additional opportunities for the community to gather and ride together in the coming months.
Currently, the ATATs are working with the city on bicycle/pedestrian counts to help guide the city’s planned street improvements on the 35th Avenue corridor, are working with local schools to revive the book donation program, and are preparing for another season of cruiser rides.
Visit www.wratat.org or contact us at wratat@gmail.com for more information or to get on the ATATs’ mailing list to find out about upcoming events.
