Washington's Safe Routes to School program provides technical assistance and resources to cities, counties, schools, school districts and state agencies for improvements that get more children walking and bicycling to school safely, reduce congestion around schools, and improve air quality.


Since its inception in 2005, it has reached 177 schools, making walking and biking conditions safer for about 77,000 children.  To achieve these improvements, approximately $36 million has been awarded to 96 projects from over $200 million in requests.  The number of children biking and walking has increased by over 20 percent, with a measured increase in pedestrian and bicycle facilities and a reduction in motorist speeds.     

Examples of Successful Projects

Click on the map below for a few highlights and pictures from this successful program.

Components of Safe Routes to School

There are three elements to Safe Routes to School -- engineering, education, and enforcement.

• Engineering and infrastructure improvements  
• Education and encouragement activities  
• Enforcement  

Services for Developing Safe Routes

To assist cities, counties, schools and school districts with this program, the WSDOT Safe Routes to School Coordinator is currently providing no-cost technical assistance to past, current and future funding recipients, applicants and interested communities. 

• Help Developing Safe Routes Projects
• Design Assistance

Funding for Safe Routes Projects

Funding for the Safe Routes to School Program is administered through a competitive application process. The criteria used to prioritize applications for funding is designed to address need and ensure a comprehensive approach.

Other Funding

2010 School Zone Flashing Beacon/Lighting Projects  (pdf 362kb)

• Source - Washington Traffic Safety Commission
• Funding to install flashing yellow beacon/lighting in designated and legally marked elementary school zones. Proposals must support the WTSC's primary goal of reducing the number of deaths and serious injuries that result from traffic crashes. This goal will be accomplished through reducing motor vehicle speeds in school zones.

Progress and Performance

• Projects Status (2005-2008)
• 2011 Report to the Legislature and Project
• 2009 Report to the Legislature and Project Lists (pdf 647kb)
• 2007 Report to the Legislature and Project Lists (pdf 282kb)
• 2005 Report to the Legislature (pdf 119kb)
• 2004 Pilot Projects

Information for Families

Information for Families provides links to safety tips and ways parents can become involved in Safe Routes to School.