Hayward Receives Grant for Safe Routes to Schools Infrastructure and Bicycle Incentives
The California Air Resources Board has announced that Hayward will receive $6.2 million in grant funds to provide Safe Routes to Schools infrastructure upgrades, a Citywide bike voucher program, bike parking installations, and active transportation education and promotion including bike classes, engagement events, and crossing guard training. Hayward’s proposal is one of 12 projects across California awarded funds that that will increase access to zero-emissions transportation and diversify mobility options for schools and communities, including disadvantaged and low-income neighborhoods.
The Safe Routes and Active Transportation for Schools and Underserved Communities Project will provide and promote safe, affordable active transportation while reducing transportation-related emissions for residents, especially in disadvantaged communities. The City will be partnering with Hayward Unified School District (HUSD), Teach Earth Action (TEA), Bike East Bay, TransForm, and Bike Hayward to engage with residents and increase community participation in the development of the grant-funded programs.
The grant-funded Safe Routes and Active Transportation for Schools and Underserved Communities Project will implement projects identified in the City’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan and the Climate Action Plan. The City of Hayward has committed to achieving a 55 percent reduction in greenhouse gases by 2030 and carbon neutrality no later than 2045. The City’s updated Climate Action Plan, adopted by the City Council on January 30, 2024, includes many programs aimed at lowering emissions by increasing active transportation.
