What is Safe Routes to School?
Safe Routes to School (SRTS) is a federal initiative designed to promote walking and biking to school as an alternate transportation option to increase student activity levels and reduce fuel emissions. SRTS programming in Virginia also supports activities designed to get students moving before, during, and after the school day
Why Walk or Bike?
- It’s Fun! Walking and Bike provides children with a sense of joy and independence.
- Healthier Habits: Physical activity is good for your body and your brain. Studies have shown many positive links between regular physical activity and learning.
- Cleaner Environment: Fewer cars on the road produces cleaner air and reduces traffic.
- Promotes Safety: Being an advocate and role model for safe walking and biking makes our communities a safer place for all.
- Community Benefits: Reducing traffic congestion, boosting neighborhood connections, and promoting a healthy and active lifestyle definitely benefits the community.
Safe Routes to School Activities in Chesapeake
- September 2015 – Student Travel Tally – During the month of September, all of our 28 elementary and 10 middle schools collected this valuable student transportation data. This data provides the Department of Transportation and school division with valuable information regarding how students travel to and from school each day.
- October 2015 – International Walk to School Day (IW2SD) took place on Wednesday, October 7, 2015. We had 29 schools hosted an event this year which was an increase of 9 schools. Chesapeake had the second highest participation rate in the state this year.
Chesapeake Safe Routes to School Facts
- Chesapeake had 29 school host International Walk to School Day events in October 2015.
- According to recent student travel data, less than 3% of Chesapeake’s elementary students walk or ride their bikes to school.
- Almost 80% of our students ride a school bus each day.
- Chesapeake was 1 of 10 school districts in Virginia to receive funding for a full-time SRTS coordinator.
Check Out the Bi-Monthly SRTS Newsletters