Nadler Successfully Adds Safe Routes to Schools Funding in Transportation Bill

Washington, DC -- Representative Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), a member of the House Transportation Committee, today added $3 million for the New York City Department of Transportation's (NYC DOT) "Safe Routes to Schools" Program to the Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (TEA-LU), the legislation that authorizes federal transportation programs. "Safe Routes to Schools" addresses the need for traffic safety improvements near New York City schools to allow children to safely cross the streets on their way to school.

"Safety of our children at school goes beyond ensuring that they are safe within the walls of the classroom," stated Nadler. "Ensuring that safe road and traffic conditions exist to keep our children safe as they go to and from school is a top priority."

NYC DOT Commissioner Iris Weinshall said, "'The Safe Routes to School' program is an innovative one launched by the New York City Department of Transportation and the Department of Education. Our top priority is ensuring the safety of all of the school-aged students in New York City. This generous contribution secured for us by Congressman Nadler will bolster our efforts at enhancing school traffic safety. We thank Congressman Nadler for working with us."

Last month, NYC DOT identified 135 priority locations near schools that were in need of safety improvements. Such improvements might include sidewalk "neckdowns," changes to street light signals, and removal of construction barriers. Four of these locations exist in Rep. Nadler's Congressional District.

The $3 million Rep. Nadler added to the bill will be used to improve safety around PS 329 and P 811K, Bobovor Yeshiva B'nai Zion, Holy Cross School, and Collegiate School. Additional funding is available to enable NYC DOT to improve safety around more schools in the City it deems a priority.

"Children should not worry for their safety when going to school. This funding will allow us to do common sense things that could prevent unnecessary accidents and fatalities," said Nadler.

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