In 1969, 50 percent of all children walked to school. Yet most American children are denied this experience --today, only 15 percent of America's children walk or bike to school.

Safe Routes to Schools is a popular program spreading across Canada and the U.S. designed to decrease traffic and pollution and increase the health of children and the community. The program promotes walking and biking to school through education and incentives that show how much fun it can be. The program also addresses the safety concerns of parents by encouraging greater enforcement of traffic laws, educating the public, and exploring ways to create safer streets.

• Learn how to jump-start a Safe Routes to School program in your community.
• Learn about Safe Routes to School efforts in Minnesota.
• Make sure to check out the National Center for Safe Routes to School, which features information about efforts across the country.