Safer strolling to school.

Walking to school can be great for kids. It reduces traffic and pollution and provides daily exercise and a sense of independence. Walkers arrive at school alert and ready to learn, says Connecticut Safe Routes to School Planner Francisco Gomes.

But according to recent statistics, walking can be dangerous; school-children suffer the highest rate of pedestrian fatalities.

Communities in 20 states across the country have turned to Safe Routes to Schools to create safer walking conditions. The program begins with a survey of current conditions like sidewalks and signage. Next, it identifies critical walking routes. After planners solicit community feedback, a three-phase plan is developed.

The first phase addresses simple maintenance items that can be immediately remedied like crosswalk striping and hedge trimming. Next, the plan covers items that entail more time and cost like new speed humps and crosswalks. The final phase incorporates longer-term budget items such as building new sidewalks.

Typically, multiple community partners including schools, municipal officials and parents become involved with Safe Routes.

The average elementary school plan costs $8,000 and takes several months to complete. Funding is available from sources like school or public works budgets, PTA funds and private donations.

www.saferoutestoschools.org