Bridgewater police launch program rewarding young riders with free Chick-fil-A meals
BRIDGEWATER TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Somerset County) — Young bicycle, scooter and electric bicycle riders in Bridgewater Township who demonstrate safe riding habits could receive a free Chick-fil-A meal under a new community safety initiative launched by the Bridgewater Township Police Department.
The program, called “Ride the Safe Way, Get Chick-fil-A!,” began Monday, Nov. 2, and is designed to encourage safe and responsible riding while building positive relationships between police officers and young residents.
According to police, officers conducting routine patrols will look for young riders demonstrating safe behaviors, including wearing helmets, obeying traffic laws, traveling at safe speeds and showing courtesy toward pedestrians and motorists.
Those observed practicing responsible riding habits may be rewarded with complimentary Chick-fil-A meal cards, donated by Paul Daniel, owner of the Chick-fil-A restaurant on Route 202 in Bridgewater. The meal cards can be redeemed exclusively at the Bridgewater location.
The initiative will run through June 2027, giving officers opportunities to recognize young residents who make safe decisions while riding bicycles, scooters and electric bicycles throughout the township.
“This initiative is about recognizing young people for making smart, safe decisions,” said Bridgewater Township Police Chief John Mitzak. “Police officers are often associated with enforcing laws and correcting unsafe behavior, but we also want to recognize those who are doing the right thing. This is a great opportunity for our officers to connect with young residents, encourage safe riding habits, and build positive relationships within our community.”
Police said the program is intended to reinforce good habits through positive interactions rather than focusing solely on traffic enforcement. Officers will distribute the meal cards during regular patrols whenever they observe young riders demonstrating responsible behavior.
The department also expressed appreciation to Daniel and Chick-fil-A for supporting the initiative and contributing to community safety efforts.
“Remember, you don’t have to be doing something wrong to get the attention of a Bridgewater police officer. Sometimes, doing the right thing deserves a reward!” the department said in its announcement.
