GreenTown Los Altos hosted a Bike Safety Expo on Tuesday with representatives of local bicycle shops and organizations such as SafeMoves.org, which support bicycle safety, and the Los Altos Police Department.

Booths were set up on both sides of the Hillview Community Center auditorium. Participants tried a wide range of activities, from helmet safety to taking the Google tricycle for a test ride.

During the last hour of the evening, there were presentations about bicycle safety and protective gear. Police officers Paul Arguelles, Eric Brooks and Matthew Hartley stressed the importance of being aware while riding, because of the many distractions—from texting to applying makeup—that drivers indulge in. The three hope to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the bicycle community.  

Afterward, gear such as helmets, lights and vests were shown to participants to show them ways to increase visibility and safety. Bicycle companies are even developing wheels with reflective side walls so they can be easily seen at night, said Dave Prion of The Bicycle Outfitter.  

GreenTown Los Altos is working to inspire Los Altos to be environmentally friendly and to get people out of cars and onto bikes. They are helping to launch the Drive Less Challenge on April 22, which is Earth Day.