Carlsbad commits to two Safe Routes to School projects a year and cites $850,000 grant for crossings

Carlsbad’s transportation director told the City Schools Committee on May 7 that the city will pursue two formal Safe Routes to School projects each year and emphasized a dual approach of infrastructure improvements and education to get students to school safely.

Tom Frank, the city’s transportation director and city engineer, said the program includes walking and bike audits, intersection improvements, curb extensions and site‑access plans to reduce congestion during drop‑off and pick‑up. "We are able to commit to providing two Safe Routes to School projects per year," Frank said, adding that projects balance bike lanes, parking and emergency‑vehicle needs.

Frank also highlighted an $850,000 grant obtained through assistance from Senator Padilla to fund high‑visibility crosswalks and speed‑control measures near schools. "That project is in its infancy stage," he said, noting public input and staffing capacity will shape implementation timelines. The city encouraged districts to contact staff with hot‑spot concerns; Frank said staff will evaluate sites such as Sage Creek and Calavera Hills that committee members raised.

A Magnolia Elementary parent, Asiahan Turker, urged evaluation of the Chinquapin and Adams intersection, citing heavy traffic, inconsistent sidewalks and e‑bike riders who "just fly right through" four‑way stops. Frank acknowledged e‑bike safety concerns and said the city is coordinating enforcement, education and infrastructure work.

The transportation department also described coordination with North County Transit District for student routes and said staff will offer targeted, smaller interventions for sites that cannot commit to a full Safe Routes program. City staff reiterated they have limited capacity and will prioritize projects that volunteer to participate and show clear needs; the presentation encouraged districts and residents to submit requests for consideration.