Free bike lights brighten Isla Vista

It should be safer for bike riders in Isla Vista these days, after 1000 free lights were handed out to riders coming and going to UC Santa Barbara.

A special California Highway Patrol pop up tent was set up on Pardall Road where drivers could make a quick “pit stop.” There, they were given a small clip on light for their handlebars and some safety information.

Bike accidents are a serious concern in Isla Vista where thousands of riders are on the move every day.

“The students actually came up with the idea for this event,” said UC Santa Barbara Associate Dean of Students Debbie Fleming. The program has the name, “Brighten Up IV.”

“It has two meanings, ride safe and ride smarter,” said Fleming. “It’s been amazingly positive. The students are talking to the CHP about what are the rules, what are the laws. More than I expected.”

The purchase of the lights was sponsored by the AS Bike Commission and the Dean of Students Office.