Transportation Planning

Through a Minnesota Department of Transportation contract, we administer a transportation planning program for the region, allowing for coordinated, long-range planning.

As part of the regional transportation planning process, we oversee studies related to transportation, provide technical assistance to communities on transportation and active transportation issues, work with the Minnesota Department of Transportation District 4 Area Transportation Partnership, and integrate Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data into the transportation planning program.

Safe Routes to School

Safe Routes to School is a national program to create safe, accessible, and fun opportunities for children to walk or bike to school. With the assistance of school officials, parents, community leaders and local, state, and federal governments, the program aims to improve health, safety, and transportation.

Safe Routes to Schools includes the observation and documentation of existing conditions around the school that help to create an action plan detailing short- and long-term projects. These projects aim to empower children to walk and bike to school in a safe environment. Benefits of Safe Routes to School plans include reduced traffic congestion around schools and opportunities to teach children both pedestrian and bicyclist skills.

West Central Initiative assists communities in the planning and also provides technical assistance for the programs in the region. Community and school leaders are welcome to inquire about the program at any time.

Safe Routes to School Resources

• Rainbow Friends Animal Pennants

  Animal Pennants

• Community Engagement Toolkit

  Community Engagement Toolkit

• Teacher Resource Booklet

  Teacher Resource Booklet

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