
MoDOT's Safe Routes to School program recently announced funding for 13 grants across Missouri totaling $3.4 million.
Where is that funding going? Is it reaching the communities that need it most?
In the 2011 funding round, Safe Routes to School Infrastructure Grants were awarded to these cities, counties, and school districts: Albany, Birch Tree, Bloomfield, Cape Girardeau, Carrollton, Doniphan, Eminence, Hannibal, Holts Summit, Kahoka, Northwoods, Potosi, Russellville, St. James, Marion and Pettis County R-V. More details about the communities and their projects are on the MoDOT web site.
What is MoDOT Safe Routes to School funding used for?
The funding is used to fill in missing sidewalks, crosswalks, trails, bike lanes, safety or warning signs, bike racks, and other infrastructure that helps more students walk to school more often and with greater safety. A percentage of the funds (10-30%, by federal law) is reserved for programs to encourage and promote bicycling and walking to school and to encourage and teach safe practices.