Safe Routes Improvement Act

S. 1828, the Safe Routes Improvement Act, would require states to designate a coordinator responsible for administering the Safe Routes to School program. This federal program, which has operated for over 20 years, aims to improve safety and reduce barriers for children walking or biking to school. If enacted, the bill would ensure that each state has dedicated personnel to support local Safe Routes to School initiatives across rural and urban communities.

The program funds infrastructure improvements like sidewalks, bike lanes, and traffic calming measures within approximately two miles of elementary and middle schools. It also supports non-infrastructure activities including safety education, enforcement, and encouragement programs. By establishing state coordinators, the bill would help direct federal transportation dollars to communities that need them most and strengthen local efforts to make routes to school safer, more convenient, and more accessible for children. The bill is currently under consideration by the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works.