RPS awarded grant to support traffic safety near schools, new pump track

ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC) – Governor Walz and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) have awarded Rochester Public Schools (RPS), along with 34 other school districts, a grant to hire Safe Routes to School (SRTS) School District Coordinators.

SRTS is an international program to improve safety and reduce traffic congestion around schools, which makes it safer for students to get to school and increases physical activity and students’ health.

“Parents should be able to send their kids off to school knowing they will arrive safe and sound,” said Governor Walz. “By improving safety and promoting active modes of transportation for students, this program supports safe and healthy kids in communities across the state.”

“Thanks to this funding, students across the state can learn how to do these lifelong, foundational activities in a safer setting, and embrace active modes of transportation,” said MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger.

The SRTS grant is $437,379, and it will be spread out over three years, from July 2024 to July 2027.

RPS was also awarded a Boost Grant to build a pump track. The district previously received funding for a “Fat Tire Bicycle Fleet,” complete with a trailer, helmets, and maintenance equipment.

The City of Rochester was also awarded planning assistance funding from July 2024 to July 2025.

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