U.S. Representatives Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (PA-08) and Hillary Scholten (MI-03), both members of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at enhancing the safety of routes children use to walk and bike to school. The proposed legislation, known as the Kids on the Go Act, seeks to bolster the existing Safe Routes to School Program.
Rep. Bresnahan expressed his support for the initiative, stating, “The Safe Routes to School Program is a worthwhile approach to keeping our children and their communities safe.” He added that he is proud to introduce this legislation alongside Rep. Scholten as it represents an investment in safer neighborhoods.
The states of Pennsylvania and Michigan are recognized leaders in implementing the Safe Routes to School program. The new bill aims to reduce traffic accidents involving children, increase physical activity among students, and improve neighborhood safety by lowering costs for states employing program coordinators.
Rep. Scholten emphasized her commitment by saying, “As the first mom to represent West Michigan, I know that no family should have to worry about their child’s safety on the way to school.” She further noted that keeping kids safe transcends partisan lines.
A key provision of the bill is reducing the non-federal cost share for states hiring full-time Safe Routes to School coordinators from 20 percent down to 5 percent. These coordinators are crucial in developing infrastructure and education programs that protect children traveling between home and school.
Marisa Jones from Safe Routes Partnership praised Rep. Scholten’s leadership on this issue: “Michigan’s strong Safe Routes to School program–supported by a dedicated statewide coordinator–has been a model of success.”
Mark Schoeberl from the American Heart Association highlighted health benefits associated with safer routes: “When neighborhoods are safer and more walkable, people are more active–and that means a lower risk of heart disease and diabetes.”
Sam Pearson from Pennsylvania Downtown Center noted widespread community interest in such programs: “We were overwhelmed by the interest from communities across the Commonwealth.”
Todd Pousley from NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania shared local successes: “We have led Safe Routes initiatives along busy Main Avenue in West Scranton with positive responses.”
Scott Bricker from Bike Pittsburgh acknowledged ongoing efforts but stressed more work is needed statewide: “Representative Bresnahan’s leadership on this bill is exactly what Pennsylvania needs.”
Chris Gale from Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia also supported Bresnahan’s efforts: “There’s still so much more work to be done… Representative Bresnahan’s leadership on this bill is a critical step forward.”
