Because Texas children are at risk.

• 74% - of Texas children do not meet state guidelines for physical education. *
• 62% - of Texas children do not participate in organized physical activity. *
• 35% - of Texas school children are overweight or obese. *
• 13% - of Texas school children walk or bike to school today, compared to 66% in 1975. *
• 30% - of the average Texas morning rush hour traffic is school related. *
  * Department of Health Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

For Texas children, these percentages translate into a loss of health, fitness, freedom and independence.

Real or perceived obstacles often prohibit parents from allowing children to walk or bike to school and around their communities. These obstacles will only grow worse if we treat the symptoms rather than cure the condition. The BikeTexas Safe Routes to School Program integrates health, physical activity, traffic relief, traffic safety, and environmental awareness under one program.

The BikeTexas Safe Routes to School Program seeks to:

• SHARE the importance and fun of physical activity
• TEACH children safe walking and bicycling behavior
• HELP students arrive more alert and ready to learn
• REDUCE traffic congestion and speed near schools
• INSTILL responsibility and self-confidence in children
• RECLAIM neighborhood streets

• healthy and physically active children who regularly walk and bike to school.
• more people on sidewalks and paths, making the streets safer for everyone in the community.
• reduced traffic in drop off/pick up zones, making the roads around schools safer for students, faculty, staff and neighbors.
• children are taught traffic laws and can make safe and responsible choices as pedestrians and cyclists.
• being prepared for the Texas Safe Routes to School Call for Projects from TxDOT. Applicant schools may receive funding for engineering projects, such as sidewalks and traffic calming features, to improve walking and cycling conditions around schools.