Evaluation of ten California safe routes to school non-infrastructure (SRTS NI) grantees on changing mode of travel to and from school

Background: Today, fewer children than ever walk or bike to school. California SRTS programs aim to increase the number of K-8 children and families who safely walk or bike to school with the goals of reducing rates of childhood obesity, improving air quality, increasing daily physical activity and improving social cohesion. SRTS NI programs use encouragement, education and enforcement activities to make walking and biking to school more appealing.

Objective: Assess effectiveness of California SRTS NI program by examining characteristics of 10 K-8 schools funded in Federal Cycle 3

Methods: Analysis focused on ten schools that differ in geographics and demographics. Mode shift was assessed by analyzing pre and post parent survey data. Telephone interviews were conducted with SRTS program coordinators to understand program successes, barriers, and parents' perceived safety towards walking/biking to school. Environmental diagnosis of land use around schools was conducted to evaluate the potential for active transportation. Effect of programs on safety was analyzed by calculating pre and post pedestrian and bicycle collision rates around schools.

Results: Telephone interviews will reveal factors that enable or hinder the successful implementation of program activities. Evaluation results will reveal the extent of mode shift and whether positive improvements in parental perceived safety of walking and biking to school resulted from the programs.

Conclusion: SRTS NI funding provides opportunities to promote physical activity through increased outreach and education efforts as well as by engaging community stakeholders. This evaluation compares program implementation strategies and impacts on mode shift across California.