At the National Center for Safe Routes to School, we believe that children deserve safe places to walk and bike, starting with the trip to school. By creating these safe places, communities take a major step towards meeting the national goal of ending traffic deaths on roads. The National Center leads the Vision Zero for Youth Initiative, National Walk/Bike & Roll to School Days, and a pilot quick build program. We work closely with the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center on several youth active travel resources.
Has Your Community Made Walking and Biking Safer for Youth?
Apply for the 2025 Vision Zero for Youth US Leadership Award
The Award recognizes places that are taking bold steps to stop severe injuries and deaths among child and youth pedestrians and bicyclists. Cities, counties and tribal governments are encouraged to apply. A Vision Zero commitment not required. Read about the 2024 recipient, Arlington, VA, and the previous winners and considering applying.
Nine Strategies Cities Use to Prioritize Safe, Active Travel for Children and Youth
Cities strive to be places where children and families thrive. How does this goal translate to prioritizing safe walking and biking in a real way? We asked city officials from the first six cities to receive the Vision Zero for Youth U.S. Leadership Award for their insights on what makes a difference. Nine common insights emerged.
Engaging Youth to Advance Safer Streets for All
Two Vision Zero for Youth resources were created in a collaboration between youth activists and researchers: “Guide and Inspiration for Partnership Between Youth and Adults” and “Recommendations for Meaningful Youth Engagement.” They provide a framework and recommendations for meaningfully engaging youth to advance safer streets for all.
Creating Accessible, Equitable, Safe, and Complete Networks for Young Pedestrians
Streets in the U.S. are often not designed with a consideration for children’s needs. Read three actionable ideas for transportation professionals to improve planning for child and youth active travel to contribute to safe, complete networks for all users.
Walking to School: Connecting Past and Present Impacts
StoryMap explores the ongoing impact of segregation and present-day social factors on street conditions near schools, spotlighting Atlanta and a school improvement initiative.
What We’re Learning from Quick Build Projects
Read case studies of how Atlanta, GA and Cincinnati, OH used $10,000 grants to tackle needs for safety improvements and create community buy-in. Coming soon: Case studies from quick build projects in Detroit, MI, Jemez Pueblo, NM and Winterville, NC. The project was made possible by GM supported a range of improvements to fit various design and cultural contexts.
National Walk & Roll to School Day 2024: Registration closes October 31, 2024
There’s still time for communities to register events held in October. Be part of the official count that demonstrates community demand for safe, equitable, accessible walking and biking.