After expanding to three locations across Lancaster County, The Common Wheel has once again broadened its reach—this time with a mobile van. The organization obtained the funding for the sprinter van through a Level-Up & Launch grant it was awarded in the 2024-2025 grant cycle.
The community bike organization focuses on providing bikes, lessons on repairing and a way to connect with other members in the community through its programs and events. Starting almost 11 years ago in Reservoir Park in Lancaster City, founder Chris Caldwell had the idea to open a community bike shop in an abandoned pump house. Since then, the Common Wheel has expanded to have a location on Queen Street in Lancaster City and in Columbia, Pa.
“We’re here in Lancaster City, but even kids who are on the other side of town can’t make it over there,” said Executive Director MacKenzie Hand. “Everybody wants us, it’s a matter of making it happen. So that’s what the Columbia project and the van specifically are about is trying to get to those places where people are less likely to get to us.”
The process of getting the van was set in motion before Hand became executive director. He jumped into action in the middle of the Level-Up & Launch grant cycle, continuing the project.
“Coming into this role, I’m an experienced teacher, I’m an experienced bike mechanic and I’m an experienced human being,” said Hand, “But thinking forward with new grants and stuff is one thing. Just making sure, for all of the partners that have supported us in the past, that the projects that we started with are still on track.”
Common Wheel plans to use the van for mobile lessons, transporting tools and supplies, to eventually haul bikes and even for overnight “bikepacking” trips.
Aside from their new van, the Common Wheel has a variety of different programs for adults and children alike. The organization works with the School District of Lancaster to teach kids how to properly care for their bikes and run bike drives for the students to get a bike free of charge.
The organization also runs a Bikes For All program that works with local organizations serving low-income individuals to provide them with a bike and all of the supplies necessary for commuting. The only cost for this program is a $100 payment from the local organization that referred the individual. All other expenses, which were estimated to be about $6700, are covered by grant funding. So, the individual pays nothing for their bike and supplies.
Additionally, Common Wheel offers adult mechanics classes for bike tune-ups and repairs. This service does cost a tuition fee.
“We recommend everybody brings their own bike [to the mechanics class] because it’s a lot easier to learn and then focus on your specific issues, but that’s pretty wide open. We want to provide wrap around service for our Bikes For All people by providing free tuition for the adult mechanic class.” Hand said.
The addition of the van to these existing programs allows the organization to reach further than just Lancaster City, even further than the county as Hand discussed traveling to York County for a Bike Rodeo in Red Lion, Pa.
For more information about Common Wheel’s programs, events and even volunteer opportunities, visit its website.
