By 1812Blockhouse

In a bid to ensure the safety of children commuting to school on foot or by bike, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) Director Jack Marchbanks announced an investment of more than $8 million in various safety projects. This initiative is part of ODOT’s Safe Routes to School program, focusing on educational initiatives and infrastructure improvements.

Richland County Benefits from State Investment

Among the beneficiaries of this funding is the city of Shelby in Richland County. The Safe Routes to School program is providing consultant assistance to help develop a school travel plan for three Shelby City Schools. This project, scheduled for 2025, is estimated to cost $65,000.

Governor DeWine emphasized the importance of this investment, stating, “Creating the opportunity for children to walk and bike to school is so important, and this funding will help communities ensure that these routes are as safe as possible. Motorists should also do their part by paying attention, especially in and around schools.”

A Comprehensive Approach to Safety

The Safe Routes to School funding encompasses various aspects of project development including:

  • Right of way acquisition
  • Construction of sidewalks and enhanced pedestrian crossings
  • Non-infrastructure programming
  • School travel planning activities

This year, the program is set to fund 29 projects across 19 counties in Ohio. Two of these projects have also qualified for additional support through ODOT’s Highway Safety Improvement Program.

Selection Process and Criteria

Projects for the Safe Routes to School program are selected competitively by a committee comprising subject matter experts from ODOT and the Ohio Department of Health. The selection criteria include:

  • Ability to demonstrate improved bike or pedestrian connectivity
  • Improved safety measures
  • Number of students impacted
  • Economic need
  • Available funding

ODOT Director Jack Marchbanks, an avid cyclist himself, expressed his enthusiasm for the program. “As an avid cyclist myself, I am encouraged to see so much demand from young Ohioans to get on a bike or walk to get to school. It is our responsibility to give this next generation safer infrastructure to enjoy these modes of transportation,” he said.

A Legacy of Safety Improvements

Since its inception in 2005, ODOT’s Safe Routes to School program has provided more than $83 million to various schools, municipalities, health districts, park districts, and non-profit partners across Ohio. This funding has been instrumental in improving safety for students and promoting healthier modes of transportation.

The project in Shelby is a prime example of how state investments can directly impact local communities, ensuring that students have safe and reliable routes to school. As the program continues to grow, more communities will benefit from these essential safety improvements.

Ohio’s commitment to student safety through the Safe Routes to School program highlights the state’s dedication to fostering safe, healthy, and accessible travel options for children. With continued investment and community support, Ohio is paving the way for a safer and healthier future for its students.

Source, Photo: Office of Governor DeWine

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