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Assemblymember Diane Papan Presents $150,000 for Safe Routes to School to the City of San Carlos

Grant to improve Pedestrian & Traffic Safety Near Central Middle and Arroyo Elementary Schools

For immediate release:

SAN CARLOS – Today, Assemblymember Diane Papan presented a check for $150,000 to the City of San Carlos to support the City’s Safe Routes to School initiative to improve traffic and pedestrian safety near local campuses. The grant is a state budget allocation championed and secured by Assemblymember Papan.

“Investing in safety measures for school routes expands the ability for school aged children to safely walk and bike, which promotes physical health and mental health while reducing traffic congestion and emissions from school drop-offs and pick-ups,” said Assemblymember Papan. “I commend the City of San Carlos and its leadership in supporting such efforts.”

The grant will reconstruct and upgrade sidewalks; rehabilitate existing roadways; update and modernize curb ramps for accessibility; and install a rapid flashing beacon system to alert drivers to pedestrians.

“Improving school route safety for kids as well as all local residents is another step in making San Carlos a more pedestrian and bicycle friendly community,” said San Carlos Mayor Adam Rak. “These safety improvements will enhance the quality of life for all residents. Thanks to Assemblymember Papan for her help and partnership in this effort.”

This project at the intersection of Woodland and Arroyo Avenues was selected due to its proximity to Central Middle and Arroyo Elementary Schools. In addition, this intersection provides connectivity for pedestrians to Burton Park and students to the San Carlos Youth Center, a space frequently visited by San Carlos students after school.

“Most of our schools are embedded within neighborhoods and providing for safe, healthy and fun ways for our students to come and go has many benefits,” said San Carlos School District Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Frentress. “We are thrilled that this project is moving forward thanks to Assemblymember Papan’s leadership, and we look forward to replicating this effort around as many school campuses as possible.”