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.
In 2005, the Governor and Washington State Legislature made a 16 year commitment to this program by providing state funding. SAFETEA-LU, the federal transportation act, re-enforced Washington’s Law by providing funding for States to address safe walking and biking to and from school.
Components of Safe Routes to School
There are three elements to Safe Routes to School -- engineering, education, and 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.
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 that addresses all of the components of the program.
Other Funding
2010 School Zone Flashing Beacon/Lighting Projects (pdf 362kb)
- Washington Traffic Safety Commission
- Proposal Due Date: November 19, 2010
- For projects 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
Information for Families
Information for Families provides links to safety tips and ways parents can become involved in Safe Routes to School.