City Council backs VDOT Safe Routes to School grant application

Tom Hartman, public works director, told the City Council the city is seeking a Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant from VDOT to fund a four‑year Safe Routes to School program and to sustain a full‑time coordinator the city hired in October 2024.

Hartman said the application is tied to recent VDOT rule changes that would provide a four‑year award with shifting reimbursement levels: the first two years would be eligible at higher rates while years three and four would require growing local contributions. "Our program cost about $150,000 a year total for both years — $75,000 a year to operate the program," Hartman said, and staff would request matching funds in the FY27 budget if the application is successful.

Council members pressed staff on timing and measurable outcomes; Hartman said the earliest funded year would be FY27, subject to application and budget approval, and described detailed tracking the grant requires. He credited Andrea Troyer, the new coordinator, for over 300 instructional hours, procurement of 20 youth bikes for Rocktown and outreach materials in multiple languages.

The mayor opened the required public hearing and took a caller who urged the city to consider bicycling within broader equity and wildlife‑stewardship concerns. After brief discussion, Councilmember (functional) moved to adopt the resolution of support; the motion carried on a roll‑call vote.

The resolution authorizes staff to submit the TAP application and signals that, if awarded, the city will seek to cover the required local match through the FY27 budget process.