By Kathy McCormick , AICP Senior Planner- TRPC
Madison students are “Walking and Rolling” wonders. At International Walk To School Day 74% of students walked, biked or rode the bus to school – a lot of participation considering that on a typical day only 49% of students walk, bike or ride the bus. Since November students have been participating in Walking and Wheeling Wednesdays. This is what parents had to say:
“This is really good because we need to get our kids healthy and doing active things at home and at school.”
“We rode our bikes and it was freezing, but it was great fun.”
“A student club “The Planeteers” are keeping track of the miles students have traveled. They estimate that by December 112 miles had been traveled on foot and by bike. Students will continue Walking and Wheeling Wednesdays the rest of the year and will track how far they have gone.
In December some parents and students took the “Go By Bus” Adventure with free one-day bus passes to use over the holidays. Intercity Transit prepared information that explained how to get to places parents had identified as popular destinations for students.
Get Involved
Safety Without Fear seminar 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Monday January 26th at the Olympia Center. Sign up with Olympia Parks and Rec (753-8380) or online www.olympiawa.gov/cityservices/par – there is a $5 fee. This workshop is designed for parents to prepare their children for increasing independence, without instilling fear and loss of community.
Remind drivers to slow down and watch out for walkers and bike riders with a beautiful yard sign from the City of Olympia. These are free and can be picked up at Olympia Public Works at 924 7th Ave SE, Suite A. If you have questions call Kerry Tarullo at 753-8575.