HI SR33

Requests the Department of Transportation to utilize federal funds under the Safe Routes to School program to supplement transportation projects adjacent to schools enabling students to safely walk and bike to school.

Calls on the Department of Transportation and Department of Education to encourage private entities to assist in funding the program as a federal-state-private entity partnership to maximize available federal funding.

Notes that eligible activities include sidewalk improvements, traffic calming, pedestrian and bicycle crossing improvements, on-street and off-street bicycle facilities, secure bike parking, and traffic diversion improvements within approximately two miles of schools.

References that Hawaii's Safe Routes to School program received $7,200,000 in total funding between 2005-2011 according to the Statewide Pedestrian Master Plan.

Expresses concern that the Department of Transportation may not be maximizing federal grants available under the program to supplement traffic safety projects in school zones.