Energized by National Experts on Safe Routes To School

Last week the 3^rd Safe Routes to School National Conference took place in MN. We were lucky enough to learn the grandfather of SRtS Jim Oberstar and hear from others all across the country. It solidified for us the importance of incorporating walking and biking into our daily lives, especially children. We can’t forget that this a quality of life issue and the simple choice to walk and bike more helps people to become part of their community.

- 11,000 schools in the country offering SRtS or funded through SRtS

- In MN, since 2006 68 infrastructure projects funded (through 5 grant solicitations)

- 2011 MN SRtS grant recipients announced; MN/DOT awards $3.8 million

- In 2010; 12 million bikes were sold in the United States, 9 million cars were sold!

- Benefit cost ratios of $4 to $1 with investing in trails. ¾ of benefit is health gain in children

October 5, 2011 is National Walk to School day! Is your school participating? If so, great! Let us know. If not, talk with your principals and teachers. Organize a day of fun for the community and open a student’s eyes to the importance of physical activity!