Peoria Standard

Grant applications are now being accepted for the Safe Routes to School program, which aims to enhance safety and reduce traffic near schools serving students from kindergarten through high school. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) administers the program using federal funds. This grant cycle will distribute $12 million, with individual projects eligible for up to $250,000.

Projects that may receive funding include construction of new sidewalks, implementation of traffic-calming measures, and improvements to increase accessibility for individuals with disabilities. School districts, local governments, planning organizations, and nonprofit associations are eligible to apply.

Preference in the selection process will be given to schools that have higher percentages of low-income students and students with disabilities. Applications must be submitted by October 15th. Award recipients will be announced in the spring.

For more information about application requirements and details on how to register for informational webinars, interested parties can visit the Safe Routes to School Program website: Safe Routes to School Program.

Weaver, a Republican, was elected in 2023 as state representative for Illinois' 93rd House District.

"Administered by IDOT using federal funds, Safe Routes to School advances projects that improve safety and reduce traffic in areas around schools in grades kindergarten through high school. The new grant cycle will distribute a total of $12 million, with a maximum individual award of $250,000. Projects may include new sidewalks, traffic-calming measures, and improvements that increase accessibility for those with disabilities."

"Eligible applicants include school districts, local governments, planning organizations, and nonprofit associations. Preference will be given to schools with higher percentages of low-income students and students with disabilities. The deadline to apply is October 15th, with awards to be announced in the spring."

"For more information on the program, including selection criteria and details on how to register for webinars to assist in the application process, visit the Safe Route to School program website here: Safe Routes to School Program"