City approves Safe Routes to School grant applications for Hawks RISE and Springwood elementary projects

Tallahassee — The Tallahassee City Commission authorized staff to seek federal Safe Routes to School grant funding for two sidewalk projects that would improve walking routes to Hawks RISE Elementary and Springwood Elementary, voting 5‑0 to approve the applications.

Capital Project Manager Molly LaVesta presented the proposed grant applications and described how the projects fit the city’s sidewalk priorities and the CRTPA safety plan. LaVesta said the city has secured about $2.8 million in Safe Routes to School funding and about $5 million through transportation alternative programs over the past decade and has multiple projects at different stages of design and construction.

LaVesta described the Hawks RISE project as sidewalk work on Heritage Ridge Road, linking existing sidewalks near Meadow Ridge to Summerbrook Drive and creating a roughly 1.2‑mile walking connection to Hawks RISE Elementary. The Springwood project would add sidewalk on North Settlers Boulevard from Stone Ridge Road to Fred George Road and into the school frontage, creating a direct route for nearby students.

Commissioners discussed nearby crossings and student routes. A commissioner noted children walking unescorted along Orange Avenue and asked staff to review nearby crossing‑guard coverage and potential crossing improvements; the city manager said staff would investigate and report back.

The formal motion to approve the applications was moved by the Mayor Pro Tem and seconded by Commissioner Richardson; the commission approved the motion unanimously 5‑0.

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Votes at a glance: Motion to authorize FDOT Safe Routes to School grant applications for Hawks RISE and Springwood Elementary projects. Mover: Mayor Pro Tem. Second: Commissioner Richardson. Vote: 5‑0.