Long ago, walking and bicycling to school was a part of everyday life. In 1969, about half of all students walked or bicycled to school according to the National Personal Transportation Survey. Today, however, nearly 9 out of 10 children between the ages of 5 and 15 are driven to school by parents or buses (2001 NPTS).

The decline in walking and bicycling has been attributed to a number of causes. Distances between home and school have become longer due to decades of auto-oriented development patterns and school site planning shifting away from traditional neighborhood schools to consolidated school districts. In many communities, bicycle and pedestrian facilities such as sidewalks, crosswalks and bike lanes are non-existent. Parents also fear exposing their children to threats from strangers and motor vehicles.

The decline in walking and bicycling has had adverse effects on traffic congestion around schools, as well as safety for bicyclists, pedestrians and motorists.  In addition, children that do not rely on walking or bicycling for transportation are at higher risk for health problems such as obesity and diabetes. 

In response to these concerns, governments at all levels and bicycle/walking organizations have designed and promoted Safe Routes to School (SRTS) programs. While programs vary from community to community, all SRTS programs empower communities to make walking and bicycling to school a safe, enjoyable and routine activity. SRTS funding is available for a wide variety of programs and projects, from building safer street crossings to establishing programs that encourage children and their parents to walk and bicycle safely to school.

This website was designed by the CSRA Regional Development Centers to provide resources to CSRA communities interested in participating in SRTS programs.

Communities interested in participating in a SRTS program can contact Costa Pappis.