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Safe Routes to School Matters. 

Only a generation ago, children routinely

traveled around their neighborhoods either on

foot or by bike. Today, fewer children are walking and biking and more parents are driving. In 1969, 42% of children 5 to 18 years of age walked or bicycled to school. In 2001, the rate fell to 16% (CDC, 2005).  This trend of children replacing a routine of physical activity with motor-powered transportation has led to lifestyle changes that  impact children, families, schools, neighborhoods and the broader community.  Less foot-powered transportation means more motor vehicle traffic around schools, leading to increased traffic congestion which negatively impacts the walking and bicycling environment.  SRTS programs are part of the solution to increase physical activity and improve unsafe walking and bicycling conditions.  SRTS strategies are based on Education, Encouragement, Engineering, Enforcement and Evaluation.

 

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The funds will be distributed by the ODOT Transportation Safety Division (TSD) as a reimbursement program through an open and competitive process, with the guidance of a Safe Routes to School citizen's advisory group.  Costs incurred prior to TSD project approval are not eligible for reimbursement.

 

Overview of Safe Routes to School Program, Action Plan Process and Funding  - Powepoint Slide Presentation