Safe Routes to School

  1. 1 Bike to School Day 2023
  2. 2 Bike to School Day 2023 (3)
  3. 3 Bike to School Day 2024
  4. 4 Bike to School Day 2024 (2)
  5. 5 Open Streets 2023
  6. 6 Bike to School Day 2023 (2)

Program Overview

Safe Routes to School (SRTS) is a multi-national initiative designed to make it safer and easier for students to walk and bike to school. The initiative aims to improve safety, increase physical activity, and reduce traffic congestion around schools. 

The Town of Carrboro was the first jurisdiction in North Carolina to develop a SRTS program with the adoption and endorsement of the SRTS Strategic Action Plan (see below) in 2012 by Carrboro Town Council and the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City School (CHCCS) Board. The Action Plan guides the Town's SRTS programming, providing policy and planning recommendations. Some of the implementation achievements include:

  • Forming the SRTS Implementation Committee;
  • Securing funding for and designing Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons for the crosswalks at McDougle Elementary;
  • Incorporating SRTS infrastructure projects in long-range transportation plans, such as the Town's Updated Bike Plan (2021);
  • Working with CHCCS to integrate bicycle and pedestrian education into the school day, including Walk, Bike, & Roll to School Days; and
  • Amending the Land Use Ordinance to include a Complete Streets policy with Vision Zero language.

Safe Routes to School Plan Update

In October 2023, the Town of Carrboro received an NC DOT SRTS Non-Infrastructure Grant to update its 2012 Action Plan and expand its scope to include McDougle Middle, Morris Grove Elementary, and Carrboro High School. The Town hired Three Oaks Engineering to assist in the 9-month project. Evaluation and engagement efforts are scheduled to begin in Fall 2025, aligning with the start of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools semester.

Click here to get involved!

SRTS Implementation Committee

The SRTS Implementation Committee is responsible for recommending transportation projects, policies, programs, or activities that serve to increase the safety and convenience of walking and bicycling to school. 

The Town of Carrboro is actively looking to fill the following committee seats:

  • Two (2) students of either an elementary or middle school (from different schools) located in Carrboro.
  • One (1) parent of an elementary or middle school student attending school in Carrboro.

You can submit an application using the form found here. For information on committee membership, please visit the Advisory Boards page. Please contact Transportation Planning staff or the Town Clerk if you have any additional questions.

SRTS Action Plan (2012)

CHCCS District Map

The Town of Carrboro maintains an interactive CHCCS District Map, which includes elementary, middle, or high school district assignments based on your address as well as information on the walk/bus zones.