Solano Transportation Authority’s Solano Safe Routes to School Program receives grant

The Solano Transportation Authority’s Solano Safe Routes to School Program (SR2S) is the recipient of a $155,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) that will prioritize the safety of bicyclists and pedestrians.

Solano County is ranked No. 6 in California for pedestrian crashes for youth under 15 years old and second in bicycle crashes for this same age group.

“The Solano Safe Routes to School Program provides a variety of educational and encouragement programs and events to promote walking and biking to school, however safety education is paramount for the success of the program,” STA Board Chair and Mayor of Vacaville Ron Rowlett, said. “With this grant award, Solano SR2S will be able to expand on much needed safety education through collaborations with stakeholders and educational events at schools and in the community focused on bike and pedestrian safety around schools and neighborhoods during peak traffic times.”

The OTS funds will pay for a comprehensive safety program that will teach valuable skills for all types of road users.

• Bicycle skills and training courses that educate youth on safe riding behaviors.

• Helmet fitting inspections and distribution of helmets to those in need.

• Community and school education presentations on best bike/walking practices.

• Incorporating bicycle safety skills into regular community bike rides.

• Collaboration with local law enforcement agencies to address unsafe pedestrian, bicycle and driver behaviors through safety education.

• Hold Walk or Wheel events that encourage students and families to walk or ride to school.

• Work with school communities and stakeholders to identify programs and improvements to address bicycle and pedestrian traffic safety concerns.

The grant program will run through September 2022.