School Walk Zone Support

We are facing a modern-day challenge; our reliance on cars has resulted in fewer kids walking, biking or rolling for their journey to school. When students are driven to school, they miss the opportunity for physical activity, fresh air, and interaction with parents, caregivers, and friends. Driving increases school zone congestion, which in turn makes conditions less safe for those who do walk or wheel, and adds to air pollution. School staff also frequently have to spend valuable time dealing with traffic issues and complaints.

Active School Travel Peterborough has the tools to help you mitigate and address the stress of unsafe walk zone conditions.

Question concierge: Who do I reach out to in resolving an issue with our walk zone? Active School Travel Peterborough can assist you in finding the help you need.
Data collection, information sharing and action: You cannot change what you cannot measure. Active School Travel Peterborough can help supply the tools and guidance to help you make change.
Communication supports and assets: Reaching your school audience can be tricky and time-consuming. Reach out today for communications templates, wayfinding signage, promotional materials templates and more.

Program History

In the mid-1990’s, concerned parent, Jacky Kennedy, introduced activities to get more kids walking and wheeling at three Toronto schools. By 2000, the idea was spreading across Ontario through programs like Active School Travel. These early efforts focused on education and encouragement. Although results were encouraging, it became clear that a more comprehensive approach was needed. Based on research into international best practices, Green Communities Canada adapted School Travel Planning (STP) for Canada.

During the period of 2018-2022, Active School Travel Peterborough developed School Travel Plans for schools in the City of Peterborough, Township of Selwyn and Township of Norwood through collaboration with school staff, students, parents/guardians and community members. Active School Travel Peterborough continues to work with school and community champions to help make school walk zones safer through using STP tools and processes.

This program is made possible through financial support from Green Communities Canada and the Government of Ontario.