Looking back, looking ahead: current and future funding opportunities and services
Creating a "walking school bus" is one way funds from ODOT's Safe Routes to School program are improving safety.
Jan. 31, 2023
Dear Safe Routes to School enthusiasts,
Happy New Year! The ODOT Safe Routes to School team is excited to announce our 2023 Safe Routes to School Advisory Committee meeting schedule.
In 2023, the Safe Routes to School Advisory Committee will focus on ODOT’s Safe Routes to School Education Program, doing a deep dive into program opportunities and challenges and recommending program priorities.
The ODOT Safe Routes to School Team wants to share some highlights from 2022 and some of the resources and funding opportunities to look forward to in 2023.
What we've accomplished together
#1 ODOT’s Safe Routes to School Construction Program received over 280 applications totaling over $230 million in requests since it was instituted in 2018 as part of Keep Oregon Moving, or HB 2017. Since 2018, ODOT has awarded approximately $70 million to 100 construction projects improving safety around schools all across Oregon.
#2 ODOT’s Project Identification Program has completed Safe Routes to School Plans in 24 communities and is working with 14 additional communities to be ready to apply for funding.
#3 ODOT’s Safe Routes to School Education program received 14 applications for the Safe Routes to School Education Program. In 2022, ODOT awarded over $1 million total to 13 projects that focus on providing educational materials and services that address barriers to students walking and rolling to school.
Looking ahead: How to access funds and services
2023: The ODOT Safe Routes to School Construction Rapid Response Grant solicitation is open and ongoing! Learn more at Rapid Response Grants - Oregon Safe Routes to Schools. ODOT also has an ongoing grant solicitation through the Innovative Mobility Program which can fund some items used in Safe Routes to School programming.
2024: Solicitations begin for competitive grants and services for the ODOT Safe Routes to School Construction and Education programs. These grants and services will help communities address barriers to students walking and rolling to school.
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Construction grants and planning assistance: The next solicitation is planned to open in spring 2024. We anticipate being able to allocate $26 million in competitive construction grants and offer services to create Safe Routes to School Plans and additional services in 15-20 communities.
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Education grants and services: The next opportunity for competitive grants from ODOT's SRTS Education Program will be a public call for applications in early spring 2024 (February) for projects starting in fall 2024 (October).
We will have more details soon. Please make sure you are signed up for email updates to be notified when our programs are accepting applications.
We look forward to working with you!
The SRTS Team
Heidi Manlove, Education Program, 503-986-4196
LeeAnne Fergason, Construction Program, 503-910-8994
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