Governor approves "Safe Routes to School" projects
July 16, 2008
Governor Jim Doyle has announced that 38 communities throughout Wisconsin will be reimbursed for
projects to begin making their streets and intersections safer for children who walk or bike to
school. The federally funded Safe Routes to School program, in its second year of funding, is an
initiative to get more children in grades K-8 walking or biking to school - thus, encouraging a
healthy lifestyle - rather than riding in buses or cars. The program also aims to decrease traffic
around schools and reduce pollution.
Funds totaling nearly $3 million have been awarded this year to communities for such projects
as multi-use trails, bike racks, curb ramps and curb extensions, sidewalk improvements, bike and
pedestrian education, and enforcement. Of the 38 projects, 18 will be for planning, while 20 will
be to implement changes right away. The program operates on a reimbursement basis, whereby projects
must be completed before funds are distributed.
"In its first year, this program was an immediate success, and I am encouraged to see such
wonderful community interest continue," said Governor Doyle. "Safe Routes to School encourages our
school children to become more physically active in such a practical way as getting to and from
school. It is a unique program that makes both kids and their parents feel safer walking or biking
to school."
This is the second round of projects approved under the program. Wisconsin received nearly $8
million from the federal government to fund projects that make bicycling and walking to school a
safer and more appealing transportation alternative. A safe walking and biking environment will
encourage a healthy and active lifestyle from an early age. It also will reduce traffic, fuel
consumption and air pollution in the vicinity of schools.
School officials, parent-teacher groups, local law enforcement agencies and others can find
detailed information about the program online, at:
www.dot.wisconsin.gov/localgov/aid/saferoutes.htm.
For those just getting started, a Safe Routes to School toolkit is available online or by emailing
srts@dot.state.wi.us.
For more information, contact:
Renee Callaway, Safe Routes To School Coordinator
(608) 266-3973,
renee.callaway@dot.state.wi.us
Note to Editors: See
attached list (21 KB)
for projects in your area, with contact names and phone numbers.
| |