Safe Routes to School Plan

The City of Leavenworth recognizes that schools are at the heart of a strong community and is committed to making travel to and from school safer for students. To support this goal, the City partnered with Leavenworth USD 453 to apply for and receive a Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Planning Grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation.

This grant will help the community explore ways to improve sidewalks, crossings, and transportation options so students can walk or bike to school more safely and confidently. Through planning, collaboration, and community input, the City and school district are working together to create safer, healthier routes for students and residents alike.

Communities were selected through a competitive process based on the strength of their applications and the number of students who live within a reasonable walking, biking, or rolling distance to school. Reviewers also considered community need, including the percentage of students eligible for free or reduced-price lunch based on household income. This factor can reflect limited access to vehicles and highlights communities where students may rely more on walking, biking, or rolling to get to school. By prioritizing these factors, the program helps ensure resources go to communities where safer routes can make the greatest impact.