As Northern Nevada transitions to warmer weather and longer daylight hours, Western Nevada Safe Routes to School (WNSRTS) is launching a comprehensive pedestrian safety campaign to protect the growing number of students walking and rolling to school. The campaign, which runs through the end of the school year, aims to increase visibility and driver awareness across Carson City, Douglas, Lyon and Storey counties.
WNSRTS promotes safe walking, biking, and rolling through education, encouragement, and safety improvements. “With more kids out on our sidewalks and streets, it is vital that both students and drivers stay alert,” said Erica Roselius, Western Nevada Safe Routes to School Coordinator. “Our goal is to ensure every child can safely enjoy the benefits of walking and biking in their community.”
Multi-Layered Safety Initiatives
Beyond student engagement, the campaign includes several critical infrastructure and enforcement components to ensure a safe environment for all commuters:
- Driver Reminders: In collaboration with the Office of Traffic Safety, an over-the-street banner will be installed on Carson Street to remind motorists to stop for pedestrians.
- Increased Enforcement: WNSRTS is partnering with the Sheriff’s Office to deploy mobile radar units in Carson City school zones. Drivers are reminded that fines are doubled in active school zones.
- Safety Pop-Ups: Staff will host pop-up events at select elementary schools to educate students on crosswalk safety. To improve visibility, kids will receive reflective items to help them stay seen at night.
For more safety tips or information, visit the Carson City Public Works Safe Routes to School page at carsoncity.gov/srts.
