THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, SEpTEmbER 11, 2026 Page 9 Everett Residents 50 and Older Invited to Participate in Golden Gears Program Golden Gears program coming to Everett to encourage older adults to build confidence using bikeshare and other active transportation options Samantha Silversberg, Undersecretary of Transportation Policy, speaking at a podium. Special to The Advocate E verett residents 50 and older are invited to participate in the Golden Gears Program on September 27 at the Gazebo at Rivergreen Park. MassDOT will host up to 20 older adults for a bikeshare confidence clinic designed to help participants become more comfortable using the local bikeshare system and navigating bicycle infrastructure. The clinic will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with an optional “ride refresh” beginning at 8 a.m. Made possible through an Mayor Van Campen, MassDOT representatives and community members gather for a group photo. AARP Community Challenge Flagship Grant awarded to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), the program will provide Everett residents with free, hands-on instruction, guided rides and peer support to encourage the safe and comfortable use of bikeshare and other active transportation options. Everett joins Worcester and Springfield as one of the inaugural host communities for the initiative. “Creating transportation options is only part of the equation. We also need programs that help people feel confident taking advantage of them,” said Mayor Robert J. Van Campen. “This initiative gives older adults the support and encouragement they need to try bikeshare, stay active and remain connected to their community. We’re proud that Everett was selected for this program, and I look forward to joining residents at Rivergreen Park for the clinic.” The initiative builds on ongoing investments in safer, more accessible transportation throughout Massachusetts while helping older adults take advantage of expanding micromobility options in their communities. In addition to the clinic, the program will include educational resources, participant feedback and outreach materials that can serve as a model for communities Mayor Van Campen and community members biking. across the Commonwealth. ”This program is intentionally practical,” said Kristopher Carter, MassDOT Chief Innovation Officer. “It is about meeting people where they are, answering questions, providing hands-on support, and helping older adults feel comfortable and confident using available transportation options that may be less familiar to them. Bikeshare can be a convenient and affordable way to connect to trails, transit, local destinations, and community life, and we want more people to feel empowered to use it.” Residents who are interested in attending the Golden Gears program can scan the QR code or go to www.mass. gov/info-details/golden-gears to register.
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