What are some of the barriers to walking and biking to school?
The main barriers to walking and bicycling to school are distance from the school, community design, safety, and time and convenience. Many neighborhoods, especially new subdivision, are not designed for the convenience of the pedestrian. They do not have sidewalks, or safe crossings, or are too far from the school to walk or bicycle. Safety is another big concern. Neighborhoods that have high traffic volumes and speeds cause concern for children’s safety. In addition, perceptions of crime deter people from allowing their children to walk to school, such as parental concerns about child abductions. Time and convenience are other common factors. People believe that it is more convenient to drop their child off at school on their way to work. Safe Routes to School addresses these concerns by promoting safe walking and biking to school programs, such as Walking School Busses and Bicycle Trains.
