The Minnesota Department of Transportation has awarded $2 million in state and federally funded Safe Routes to School grants to more than 60 Minnesota schools.
The grants are designed to support and help students walk or bicycle to and from school safely, according to MnDOT.
"Each year, more schools are becoming part of the Safe Routes to School program, which increases opportunities for children to walk and bike to school," said MnDOT Commissioner Charlie Zelle in a release. "Safe bicycle and pedestrian access has many benefits, including easing congestion around schools and reducing school transportation costs. Biking and walking also provides a chance for physical activity, which improves health and supports academic achievement."
Grants were awarded in two categories. Infrastructure grants were given to schools to support projects identified through planning efforts with cities and counties. Planning grants were awarded to schools to analyze existing conditions for walking and biking, gather public input and identify potential solutions.
The Region Five Development Commission received a planning grant, with those funds going to support Staples Elementary School, Staples High School, Sacred Heart Area School, Motley Elementary and Middle School, Brainerd High School, Forestview Middle School, Baxter Elementary School, Garfield Elementary School, Lowell Elementary School, Harrison Elementary School and Riverside Elementary School.
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Go to www.mndot.gov/saferoutes for more information about Safe Routes to School.
