By Kori Johnson Social isolation is a big topic these days. People feel disconnected from their friends, families, and communities. We should find ways to combat social isolation and increase social connection. Safe Routes activities are perfect for bringing people together. I also think there is a difference between social isolation and enjoying spending time alone. As a true introvert, I love my alone time. It energizes and…

Every dollar invested in building local capacity to compete for federal funding can create a powerful return on investment for communities wanting to create more connected, livable communities. In 2025, that principle played out in a powerful way across the Greater Philadelphia region, and at Safe Routes Partnership, we are proud to be part of…

Safe Routes Partnership is entering its next chapter with an updated leadership structure designed to support the organization’s continued growth, strengthen internal capacity, and position us for the work ahead. Following a vote by the Board of Directors, Marisa Jones will serve as Executive Director and Dave Cowan as Deputy Director.  For the past several years, Marisa…

By Marisa Jones and Victoria Bautista   Late Sunday night, the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) released the text of a bipartisan bill that would set new transportation policies and reauthorize surface transportation programs. The Building Unrivaled Infrastructure and Long-term Development for America’s 250th Act (BUILD America 250 Act) was published with support from both the T&I Committee…

Written by Victoria Bautista, Federal Policy Manager We are t-minus five months until the current surface transportation authorization, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), otherwise known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, expires. As we discussed in a previous post, we may not see a surface transportation reauthorization bill enacted into law this year, but that doesn’t mean…

Written by Dave Cowan, Managing Director, Consulting and Program Support Some conversations stay with you because of what was said. Others stay with you because of who said it. Our recent listening sessions on Federal Immigration Enforcement held both. For me, much of the weight came from hearing Jenny Bordon and Sarah Stewart — two…

USDOT just released the fifth year of Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) funding, and the time is right now to apply for plans and projects that improve roadway safety, including Safe Routes to School. Since the program was created in 2021, we’ve encouraged the Safe Routes to School field to go after this…

Written by Marisa Jones, Managing Director With just over six months left before current federal surface transportation law expires, Congress is racing to write a new bill that will set policy and funding for the nation’s roadway transportation programs. This process, known as surface transportation reauthorization, is one of the most important opportunities we have to…

Written by Kori Johnson, Senior Manager, Program and Engagement, Safe Routes Partnership Last week, I had the honor of testifying at the Maryland state legislature in support of a bill that would designate November 14 as Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day. If passed, Maryland would become the fourth state to officially recognize Ruby Bridges…

Written by Marisa Jones, Managing Director, Safe Routes Partnership Pictured: Marisa Jones (Safe Routes Partnership), Caron Whitaker (League of American Bicyclists), Chris Bell (PeopleForBikes), and Scott Goldstein (Rails to Trails Conservancy) Have you ever wondered what comes after signing on to a group letter to Congress? Last week, Safe Routes Partnership, League of American Bicyclists,…

Written by Dave Cowan, Safe Routes Partnership Managing Director and Minneapolis resident  Minneapolis is a vibrant city filled with movement in every season (yes, even in our freezing winters). Kids walk to school, families bike to parks, and neighbors stroll together around our lakes, through our communities, and on our world-class trail system. It is…

The government may be shut down, but our efforts to secure policy and funding for Safe Routes to School, walking, and bicycling continue on. It’s been a minute since we updated you via blog on what’s happening on Capitol Hill related to Safe Routes to School and active transportation because we’ve been posting video updates….

Thank you for your interest in the 2025 Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day. This annual celebration honors Ruby’s courage and highlights the importance of anti-racism, kindness, and community connection. You Talked, We Listened! In response to community feedback, we are pleased to share the application questions in advance to help schools and organizations prepare….

? Urgent Action Needed ? Help Us Strengthen Safe Routes to School!   Today, a bipartisan bill was introduced in the U.S. Senate that could transform Safe Routes to School in every state—and the Safe Routes Partnership is proud to be leading the charge with incredible partners like YOU! The legislation (S. 1828), introduced by…