Safe Routes to School funding announced

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVQ) – Governor Steve Beshear announced the funding for a Paris project designed to enable and encourage children to safely walk or ride bicycles to school.

Officials say less than 15 percent of children walk or bike to school. They say this recent decline has had a negative impact on traffic congestion, air quality, and student safety around schools.

‘Safe Routes to School’ is a $250,000 grant that will be used to complete a pedestrian system to and from Bourbon Central Elementary, Middle, and High schools, according to the governor.

“This project will afford children and their families a better opportunity to walk or ride bikes, which can go a long way toward developing the good habits of an active, healthy lifestyle,” Governor Beshear said.

Under the Safe Routes program, a wide range of projects and activities are open for cities and counties to apply for funding.

Authorities say eligible projects include improved sidewalks, bike lanes, crosswalks, traffic enforcement and public awareness campaigns.

More information on this program can be found at governor.ky.gov/healthierky