The San Mateo County Office of Education (SMCOE) received a $130,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) that focuses on the safety of bicyclists and pedestrians.

This year’s grant will be administered by SMCOE’s Safe Routes to School program, which promotes safe alternative transportation for students to and from school. Grant funds will be used for a variety of activities promoting bicyclist and pedestrian safety:

  • Education workshops geared toward youth and older adults
  • Education on the importance of safety equipment that improves visibility such as reflective armbands, bicycle headlights, and taillights
  • Community walks and bicycle safety courses
  • Bicycle helmet inspections
  • Distribution of bicycle helmets to those in need following education presentations

“Our goal is that education will change poor behaviors and make our roads safer,” OTS Director Barbara Rooney said. “This funding will help ensure the safety of those out biking or walking.”

The grant program runs from October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021. Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.