The grant will support county-wide efforts to create safer streets for cyclists and pedestrians through activities. Designed by Freepik, www.freepik.com

 

BUTTE COUNTY, CA (MPG) - Butte County Public Health (BCPH) has been awarded a $165,113 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) for its bicycle and pedestrian safety program. The program educates and promotes safe behaviors among cyclists and pedestrians while raising awareness of drivers’ responsibilities to help keep everyone on the road safe. The grant program runs from Oct. 1 to Sept 30, 2026.

“We are excited to receive this grant, which will allow us to continue the expansion of the bicycle and pedestrian safety program,” said Rachel Tow, Program Supervisor of the Injury Prevention program with Butte County Public Health. “By focusing on education, awareness, and promoting safe practices, we aim to reduce crashes and prevent injuries and death for all road users.”

This year, in addition to working with youth, the program will expand educational efforts to adults. Butte County ranks the eighth highest out of California’s 58 counties for the number of pedestrians injured and killed (OTS, 2022). Ultimately, the goal is to create a more walkable and bike-friendly community where everyone can travel safely and confidently.

The grant will support county-wide efforts to create safer streets for cyclists and pedestrians through activities such as on-bicycle training courses for youth and adults, defensive walking lessons for children and adults, bike helmet fitting inspections and distribution of helmets, distribution of educational resources and safety equipment, such as reflective armbands/leg bands and bicycle lights and bike and pedestrian safety presentations for schools and community organizations.

“Through safety programs and strong partnerships, we are working toward a future where everyone walking and biking in California can travel safely,” Office of Traffic Safety Director Stephanie Dougherty said. “By supporting projects that encourage people to prioritize safety in their daily choices, we are creating a strong road safety culture together.”

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.