Bend, OR – At its Thursday meeting, the Oregon Transportation Commission announced a significant investment aimed at improving student safety around schools across the state. The commission approved 28 Safe Routes to School projects, allocating more than $31 million for the installation of new sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, curb ramps, and other vital infrastructure improvements. The goal of these projects is to make it easier and safer for students to walk, bike, or use mobility devices on their way to school.

The funding will primarily focus on areas within a two-mile radius of schools, with special emphasis on under-resourced communities where safety concerns are more pronounced. The improvements will help reduce barriers for students, ensuring that all children, regardless of their background or resources, can safely travel to and from school.

“It’s important to us to help students and their families get to school safely by foot, bike, or mobility device,” said Suzanne Carlson, ODOT’s Public Transportation Division Administrator. “We are excited to support cities and counties who are working to make these improvements in their communities. The impact of these projects is already making a huge difference across the state.”

These 28 projects are funded through ODOT’s Safe Routes to School Competitive Construction Grant Program. In this funding round, the program received 89 applications, totaling $138.2 million in requested funding. ODOT, alongside the Safe Routes to School Advisory Committee, had to carefully prioritize projects based on the highest safety risks, the needs of low-income schools, and the likelihood of completion within five years.

With a focus on accessibility, safety, and community engagement, the initiative is expected to not only improve daily commutes for students but also create a lasting impact on local communities, making them safer and more pedestrian-friendly for everyone.