Tacoma’s Safe Routes to School Program
The City of Tacoma Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program works to make it safer, more convenient, and fun for K-12 students and families to walk, bike, and actively roll to school through:
- targeted infrastructure improvements,
- walking and biking safety education, and
- encouragement programs.
The program started in 2017 with the launch of the 2017 Safe Routes to School Action Plan. The Tacoma Safe Routes to School Action Plan (2023 update) now guides this work. Partnerships between the City of Tacoma, schools, neighbors, community organizations, and other agencies help the program grow and succeed!
Tacoma Safe Routes to School Action Plan - 2023 Update
Suggested Walking Route Maps for Elementary Schools
Why the City Invests in SRTS
Safe Routes to School efforts have health and safety benefits for students that extend to the whole community. When students safely walk, bike, and actively roll to school, everyone can benefit:
- Less traffic congestion and harmful emissions around schools.
- Improved student attention and academic performance, with fewer absences and tardy arrivals.
- Healthier students and families getting the recommended amount of daily physical activity.
- More engaged, connected, and active communities.
What has the SRTS Program accomplished in the first 5 years? What will the next 5 years entail? Watch the presentation to City Council's Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Committee.
What We Do
The City uses the Safe Routes to School Action Plan, updated in 2023 with numerous community groups, to prioritize SRTS program efforts. This plan follows the 6 E’s: