Safe Routes to School: Wisconsin Allocates Millions for Community Projects

MADISON, Wis. (Civic Media) — A new trail for Rick Lake, a bridge for Waupaca, and a bike path for Polk and Burnett counties. 

Those projects are in the works, with Gov. Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation announcing $32 million in federal funds getting sent out.  In total, 56 local improvement projects across the state will get new funding through the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP).

A statement says the money will be used to support initiatives for safe, non-motorized transportation, including bike and pedestrian trails, sidewalks, and “Safe Route to School” projects.

“These transportation alternative projects will help connect communities in every corner of Wisconsin and provide families with safer routes to work, school, appointments, and more,” Evers said.

Many projects aim to expand existing bike and pedestrian paths to better connect communities and school zones. Notable projects include a $1.4 million multi-use trail in Rice Lake, a $973,000 ADA-compliant pedestrian bridge in Waupaca, and $1.7 million for sidewalk improvements around schools in Fort Atkinson. Here’s a full list of projects included.  

Projects receive up to 80% federal funding, with a minimum 20% covered by the local government.

A statewide selection committee evaluates projects in smaller communities, while large urban areas pick their own eligible projects.