The Latest/ The “Take the Safe Route – Safe Access to School Study” is complete and was approved at the CRTPA’s April 15, 2025 meeting and the presentation may be viewed here. The REPORT is available for review (below):
- Part I (Study Description and School Recommendations);
- Part II (Funding, Systematic & Programmatic Recommendations).
- Appendix (2 parts): Appendix Part 1 of 2 & Appendix Part 2 of 2
In late 2023, the CRTPA embarked on a targeted and data-driven school safety study (“Take the Safe Route – Safe Access to School Study”) with the aim of enhancing walking and biking safety for students in the CRTPA region. The study will provide recommendations for walking and biking improvements, specifically targeting schools identified as having the greatest need.
The study is divided into two phases, with Phase 1 focusing on a comprehensive data analysis of the region’s schools (elementary, middle, and high schools). This phase involved key steps such as stakeholder meetings, data collection, desktop analysis, and a prioritization process. It culminated in the identification of twelve (12) schools earmarked for further evaluation due to their need for biking and walking capital improvements.
Phase 2 of the study provided a focused safety and accessibility analysis for the recommended schools in Phase 1. This analysis included on-site visits and an inventory of the existing facilities and infrastructure at the selected schools. The assessments considered sidewalk gaps, crosswalk/intersection improvements, lighting, bicycle facilities and off-road trails. This phase also included a student and parent survey for each of the identified schools.