http://ozarkspub.vo.llnwd.net/o37/KSMU/audio/mp3/program-aims-increase-sidewalks-near-springfield-schools_59805.mp3
Residents who live in Springfield now have the option of receiving a tree in exchange for allowing sidewalks to be built in their neighborhoods. KSMU’s Melanie Foehrweiser has details.
The Traffic Operations Division program, called “NeighborWoods,” offers a tree to residents who allow school sidewalks to be built on their street. The trees are large, with many being over five feet tall. The program aims to make walking to school safer for students and promote a healthy lifestyle.
The NeighborWoods school sidewalk program is one of many public works projects designed to make walking and biking near schools safer. According to a release from the city, these safety programs have resulted in 50 miles of new sidewalks around the area in the past 20 years. The ultimate goal for the school sidewalk program is to build sidewalks in a half mile radius of all area schools.
For KSMU News, I’m Melanie Foehrweiser.