Why was Safe Routes to School started? We are becoming obese at an alarming rate!

I am excited that this program is not just a government hand-out giving free money to schools just for engineering such as new sidewalks and stoplights. Engineering is a small part of the equation. Having sidewalks does not mean kids will use them. Applicants must show commitments by the parents, schools, police departments and cities. It is all about getting the kids healthier. If all the obstacles are overcome by the schools applying but they do not get the commitments by the parents to let their children walk or bike to school then the application will not be approved. 

Applicants have to show that they are covering the 5 E's.

Engineering 
Creating operational and physical improvement to the infrastructure surrounding schools that reduce vehicle speeds, reduce potential conflicts between motor vehicles and students who walk/bike to school, establish safer and fully accessible crossings, walkways, trails, and bikeways, and are fully accessible to all users. Engineering guide

Education
Teaching children and parents about wise transportation and safety choices with instruction focused on creating lifelong bicycling and walking safety skills. Education

Enforcement
Partnering with local law enforcement agencies to ensure that traffic laws are obeyed in the vicinity of schools - including speed limits, yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks, and proper bicycling and walking behaviors. Community enforcement efforts might include crossing guard training programs.

Encouragement
Using events, activities, and educational giveaways to promote bicycling and walking. Encouragement

Evaluation
Monitoring and documenting outcomes and trends by collecting data before and after the SRTS project has begun. Evaluation

APPLICANTS:
SRTS Projects may include Engineering, one of the Five E components, and must include (either, directly or indirectly) the remainder of the Five Es – Education, Enforcement, Encouragement and Evaluation.

Find more information at South Dakota Safe Routes to School