Monterey County Public Health Department Awarded Grant from the Office of Traffic Safety for Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Program

Monterey County Public Health Bureau is the recipient of a $100,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) that will prioritize the safety of bicyclists and pedestrians. Monterey County Public Health is excited to continue working with OTS to promote walking and biking to and from school to reduce traffic congestion and collisions during drop off and pick up times. OTS funding will support continued outreach and education in cities of Gonzales, Soledad, Greenfield, King City, Marina, Seaside and Pacific Grove while making walking and biking to school safer, more interactive and fun for families and students in Monterey County. “Our roads are increasingly riskier for people who walk or ride their bike,” OTS Director Barbara Rooney said. “The goal of this funding is to reverse the growing trend of bicyclist and pedestrian-involved crashes by educating the public on safe road behaviors.” Grant funds will pay for a comprehensive safety program that will teach valuable skills for all types of road users. Community sidewalk stencil art project to make walking colorful, fun, and educational for students and families walking to and from school. Educational presentations to educate youth and older adults on safe walking habits. Helmet fitting inspections and distribution of helmets to those in need. Community and school education presentations on best bike/walking practices. Participate in community events that promote the importance of visibility on roads with safety equipment such as reflective armbands/leg bands and bicycle headlights/taillights. The grant program will run through September 2022. Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.