Safe Routes to School
30 years ago, 66% of children walked to school. Today, only 13% of America’s children walk or bike to school.
(source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention)
Safe Routes to School is a popular program spreading across Canada and the U.S. designed to decrease traffic and pollution and to increase the health of children and the community.
The program promotes walking and biking to school through education and incentives that show how much fun it can be.
The program also addresses the safety concerns of parents by encouraging greater enforcement of traffic laws, educating the public and exploring ways to create safer streets.
What does Cleveland Safe Routes to School do?
- Participate in International Walk to School Week activities
- Collaborate with members of Safe Routes to School Coalition
- Complete walkability audits and recommend infrastructure enhancements such as better crosswalks, secure bicycle racks, crossing guards, etc.
- Coordinate pedestrian safety and bicycle safety education
- Promote clean air and anti-idling around schools
Cleveland Safe Routes to School Coalition
The Safe Routes to School Coalition includes many community partners and is a leader in this citywide effort:
- City of Cleveland Departments
- Mayor’s Office
- Public Health
- Community Relations
- Public Safety
- Recreation
- Aging
- Public Service
- City Planning
- Building & Housing
- Steps to a Healthier Cleveland
- Cleveland Bikes
- Cleveland Metropolitan School District
- Clevelanders in Motion
- Community Development Corporations
- Greater Cleveland SAFE KIDS
- Ohio City Bicycle Co-op
- RSVP of Cleveland
Support for Cleveland Safe Routes to School is provided by the State and Territorial Injury Prevention Directors Association.
