My ties to the cycling community are deep-rooted, as cycling has always been a big part of my life. It has connected me to my family and community, beginning with my dad introducing me to the joy of cycling in the alley of my urban home. He had cycled competitively as a child in Ireland and was so excited to share his passion for the sport with me. Once I became a proficient cyclist, my family spent time together riding bikes and exploring Chicago and the neighboring areas. My family, however, also knows the darker side of cycling. Before I was born, my grandmother suffered a traumatic brain injury due to a cycling accident caused by poorly marked road signage and unkept bike paths. The terrible accident took away her once vibrant spirit and stole her independence with lifelong repercussions. The incident still impacts my family and is a constant reminder of cycling's inherent risks. The Rob Dollar Foundation's mission resonates deeply with me as I've witnessed firsthand the toll of unsafe roads on those I hold dear. The staggering statistics of bicycle-related deaths in 2020 serve as a dark reminder of the urgency of this cause. With nearly two-thirds of these fatalities attributed to motor vehicle collisions, it's evident that we must do more to protect cyclists and pedestrians on our streets. An example of some steps my community has taken to lower the risks of motor vehicle traffic collisions for cyclists was the creation of The 606 Bloomingdale Trail. This 2.7-mile elevated trail was once an abandoned industrial train line repurposed on Chicago’s northwest side, that now features a chain of street-level parks, scenic lookout points, and public art installations. The addition of this trail has not only lowered the risks of traffic collisions for cyclists, but it has also helped the environment. When urban planners initiated the development of The 606, it was anticipated that more individuals would be motivated to bike and opt for alternative modes of transportation instead of driving. This shift is expected to reduce carbon emissions associated with car usage. Chicago has also encouraged its usage by making bikes available to rent at nearby Divvy Stations as part of the city’s bike-share program. With the addition of The 606 to my community, I am able to cycle in a safe environment with minimal risk. Due in part to my own experiences using The 606 trail, I have made it a goal in my future career as an urban planner to continue the creation of similar infrastructure in major cities and urban environments. These experiences have broadened my understanding of the challenges facing cyclists and fueled my determination to be a part of the solution. The Rob Dollar Foundation scholarship resonates deeply. Rob's love for cycling was tragically cut short by a preventable accident. The foundation's mission to improve safety for cyclists aligns perfectly with my desire to create roads that nurture a culture of shared responsibility. I plan to leverage my education in urban planning and involvement in clubs, internships, and study abroad programs to join the next generation of urban planners to reimage urban spaces. I plan to use my skills to design innovative solutions that prioritize road safety. As a recipient of the Rob Dollar Foundation Scholarship, I will not only have the opportunity to further my education but also amplify the voices of cyclists and advocate for policies that reflect their needs. Whether it's protected bike lanes or traffic calming measures, I'm committed to making tangible improvements. We can build a safer, more equitable transportation system by fostering collaboration.