Scotts Valley Police Department has received a $25,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety to support programs promoting bicycle and pedestrian safety.
The Bicyclist and Pedestrian Safety Program will focus on safe practices for people walking and biking, while emphasizing drivers’ responsibility to watch for people outside vehicles.
“This grant provides our department with valuable resources to expand bicycle and pedestrian safety education throughout our community,” said Sgt. Sjon Tol. “By partnering with our local schools and community organizations, we can teach young cyclists and pedestrians essential safety skills, provide bicycle helmets to those in need, and promote safer behaviors among motorists. Our goal is to prevent injuries and collisions through education, awareness, and positive community engagement. We are grateful to the California Office of Traffic Safety for its continued support in helping us make Scotts Valley a safer place for everyone who walks, bikes, or drives.”
Grant funding will support community bicycle and walking audits to identify potential infrastructure improvements, participation in open-streets events and bicycle training courses for youth and teens.
Other activities will include helmet fittings and distribution for children in need, educational presentations at schools and in the community, and Safe Routes to Schools programs encouraging students to walk and bike safely.
The program also will host pop-up events highlighting the importance of visibility on roadways, with safety equipment such as reflective armbands and leg bands, along with bicycle headlights and taillights.
“We are committed to building a culture of safety across California,” said Office of Traffic Safety Director Stephanie Dougherty. “Through innovative safety programs and our continued partnerships, we’re shaping a culture where safe walking, biking and driving are the expectation and the norm.”
The grant program runs through September 2027. Funding is provided through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
