AASHTO Journal - Ohio DOT Funding 17 ‘Safe Routes to School’ Projects

The Ohio Department of Transportation recently awarded $8.8 million in grants to 17 projects in 14 counties through its Safe Routes to School program, which helps communities build and improve active transportation-related infrastructure, such as sidewalks, crosswalks, bicycle lanes, and traffic-calming features.

[Above photo by Ohio DOT]

That funding specifically supports a mix of infrastructure and non-infrastructure initiatives, Ohio DOT noted, including right-of-way acquisition, design, and construction between state fiscal years 2027 and 2030, as well as non-infrastructure activities like school travel plans, public education, and safety campaigns in fiscal year 2028.

“Investing in our children’s safety, health, and well-being is one of the most important things we can do for Ohio’s future,” noted Governor Mike DeWine (R) in a statement. “These ‘Safe Routes to School’ grants empower local communities and give families peace of mind that their student can safely walk or bike to school every single day.”

[Editor’s note: The Ohio DOT also recently awarded more than $21 million in grants to support 17 bicycle and pedestrian safety projects via the state’s Transportation Alternatives Program.]

Ohio DOT noted that students who walk or bike to school benefit from daily physical activity that supports mental health, academic performance, and long-term wellness. Those transportation modes also help reduce local traffic and air pollution; improving quality of life for entire neighborhoods.

“Every child deserves a safe, accessible path to school, whether they’re walking, riding a bike, or using a scooter,” said Pamela Boratyn, Ohio DOT director. “By investing in pedestrian and bike infrastructure, we are creating healthier, more connected communities across all of Ohio.”

She added that, since its inception in 2005, Ohio DOT’s “Safe Routes to School” program has awarded nearly $100 million to schools, municipalities, health districts, park districts, and non-profit organizations working to improve student safety and promote active transportation.

Many state departments of transportation across the country provide similar support for school-focused transportation needs.

For example, the New Jersey Department of Transportation recently began accepting applications for fiscal year grant funding via its Safe Routes to School program, with applications being accepted through November 13.

“New Jersey’s children deserve safe access to school, and the resources provided by the Safe Routes to School program aims to do just that,” noted Priya Jain, New Jersey DOT commissioner, in a statement. “In partnership with the state’s three regional planning authorities, federal funding will be administered to counties and municipalities for local transportation projects that enhance safety and reduce congestion.”

Meanwhile, the Texas Department of Transportation recently provided a behind-the-scenes look at the work performed by its traffic engineers to maintain school zone speed warning signs.