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EL DORADO COUNTY AWARDED GRANT FOR BICYCLE, PEDESTRIAN EDUCATION                               

(PLACERVILLE, CA) – El Dorado County announced today it received a $100,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) for programs that focus on the safety and awareness of bicyclists and pedestrians. Specifically, the grant funding will be used to develop an educational and community outreach program with an emphasis in areas of the County where data shows a disproportionately high number of pedestrian and bicycle collisions. 

"El Dorado County's Department of Transportation recognizes the potential of this program to encourage safe walking and bicycle behaviors for users of our growing active transportation network," said El Dorado County Department of Transportation, Director Rafael Martinez.

"Our goal is that education will change poor behaviors and make our roads safer," OTS Director Barbara Rooney said.  "This funding will help ensure the safety of those out biking and walking."

Grant funds will be used for a variety of activities promoting bicyclist and pedestrian safety:

·       Education workshops geared toward youth and older adults.

·       Education on the importance of safety equipment that improves visibility such as reflective armbands, bicycle headlights and taillights.

·       Community walks and bicycle safety courses.

·       Bicycle helmet inspections.

·       Distribution of bicycle helmets to those in need following education presentations.

The grant program runs from October 1, 2020 to September 30, 2021.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

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