In an effort to create safer areas for Tacoma’s children, the City of Tacoma is partnering with Sheridan Elementary School on a Safe Routes to School project, which enhances students’ walking and bike routes to school. With the help of a $379,960 Federal Highway Administration Safe Routes to School grant, the City of Tacoma will install curb extensions at crosswalks, new sidewalks and curbs with ADA-compliant ramps and secure bike racks at the school.

The Safe Routes to School project will kick off on Sat., Apr. 20 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Sheridan Elementary School, located at 5317 McKinley Ave. The event will feature a Clean Sweep from 10:30 a.m. until noon. Garbage bags and gloves will be provided. In addition, there will be a Bike Rodeo from noon to 1:30 p.m. A free lunch, free helmets and fittings, bike repairs and bike giveaways will be provided.

The City of Tacoma will also create educational programs and incentives to encourage students to walk or bike to school. The Tacoma Police Department will conduct speed and parking patrol around the school. Construction begins spring 2014 and is expected to be completed fall 2014.

Community volunteers are needed to help with the kickoff event. For more information or to sign up to volunteer, contact Jennifer Kammerzell, Public Works Engineering at (253) 591-5511 or jkammerzell@cityoftacoma.org.