Black Hawk County MPO

The Iowa Northland Regional Council of Governments is an association of local governments that is committed to identifying, securing, and coordinating local, regional, and federal government projects and programs for the enhancement of our region and member communities.

Safe Routes to School

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Safe Routes to School is a national program that works with families, schools, and communities in the INRCOG region that aims to increase physical activity and create safer walking and bicycling opportunities for youth. SRTS initiatives support and address multiple barriers and benefits of active travel and is part the CDC’s Health Impact Intervention (HI-5) guidelines for contributing to increased physical activity as well as environmental benefits and safety improvements. We know every community, school, and family is unique and we have a variety of ways to help you take the next step (or roll) in the right direction. For more information on Safe Routes to School for your school and community, contact Brenda Vavroch.

Education and Encouragement Programs

• Walk and/or Bike to School Days– Short term events to boost participation and bring awareness or celebrate active travel and physical activity.
• Guest speaker/ reader – Many wonderful stories have been written about learning how to ride a bike and all the adventures one can take by foot.
• Bike and Pedestrian safety presentations – In class instruction with engaging activities to learn road safety and healthy habits for life.
• Neighborhood Navigator – In class instruction combined with a short observation of nearby intersections.
• Walking and/or Biking School Buses or Clubs – A fun, supervised, and active way for students to travel to school or learn how to navigate in their own neighborhood.
• Bike Rodeos –Skill building stations to learn rules of the road, balance, scanning, traffic signs, hand signals and more. Several volunteers are needed for the greatest success.
• Traffic Gardens– Similar to bike rodeos but set up over a few days so children and families can go through stations on their own time, getting everyone outdoors playing.
• Youth and family rides – What better way to learn and practice new skills, exercise, have fun and create a bike friendly environment for all?

Engagement and Evaluation programs

• Community and School Fairs– Bring awareness to your school or community project with SRTS Safety booth and bike blender. (Coming soon)
• School Travel assessment – Assist districts and cities to look at traffic in and around school zones and active transportation policies.
• Community Coalitions– Support to advocates at all levels for health, wellness, and safety measures that impact our youth and the future of our communities with SRTS initiatives.

“Words cannot express the gratitude I have for all of your assistance! You helped make our first bike rodeo a big success. You were so kind, helpful and encouraging. We couldn’t have done it without all your resources and your accommodations!”  -Youth Group leader, Waverly

“Now I know how to ride my bike without training wheels. I can use hand signals to help me out too.” -2^nd Grader, BCLUW

“Thank you so much for the helmet, now I know why I should wear a helmet. I wish I could give you a big pile of cookies.” -3^rd Grader, Nashua

“I will share these (school travel survey) parent responses with the school board. Due to the accident this fall they are looking into some options to make it safer for kids.” -Elementary Principal

Contact SRTS Coordinator Brenda Vavroch or call 319-235-0311 for more information. View the Safe Routes to School Facebook page for recent updates.