New Program Involves Students in Traffic Solutions

A joint initiative between the Department of Transport and the Cities of Melville, Stirling, Belmont, Cambridge, Cockburn and Subiaco, the TravelSmart to School program launch saw ten primary schools brainstorm ways to reduce heavy traffic.

Mayor Russell Aubrey said the school involvement was vitally important to the program’s goal of reducing traffic around schools.

“On an average school day during peak hour in the Perth metropolitan area, one in five cars on the road is taking children to school,” he said.

“Every year those cars travel around 80 million kilometres, despite the schools often being within easy walking or cycling distances.

“These trends have prompted the launch of the TravelSmart to School program that will encourage students and their families to get active in making their way to class. The new TravelSmart program is designed to reduce traffic congestion, build healthy habits and promote cycling and walking to school.

“In this pilot program, local government TravelSmart Officers have assisted ten primary schools and their communities to develop the skills and resources required to address the issues associated with traffic around schools.

“School input into the program gives the school communities ownership for improving this problem, as well as gaining improved air quality, healthier lifestyles, better social interaction and a safer environment.

“Since the workshop, TravelSmart officers have helped the schools to implement their action plans so they can achieve health, safety and environmental benefits for their students and community.

“The program has taken a whole-of-school approach to reducing the number of car trips to school. The City of Melville is proud to be involved with this important initiative as we plan for an increasing population across Perth.”

For more information about TravelSmart to School and program resources visit http://www.transport.wa.gov.au/travelsmart/14894.asp or call 9216 8482