The New Jersey Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Recognition Program is now accepting nominations for the 2026 awards cycle. The deadline to apply is January 31st, 2026. Applications can be submitted by the school or municipality, with assistance available from a Safe Routes to School Regional Coordinator.
What is the Safe Routes to School Recognition Program?
This annual program sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Transportation recognizes schools and municipalities throughout the state that for their commitment to creating safe and accessible environments for walking and bicycling for students. Participants in the Recognition Program can earn recognition at multiple levels by engaging in initiatives such as hosting walk and bike to school events, offering pedestrian and bicycle safety education programs, and supporting SRTS events throughout the year.
There are four levels of the SRTS Recognition Program, each building on the requirements of the previous one. Each level includes a set of criteria for schools and municipalities. The recognition levels are as follows:
- First Step
- Bronze
- Silver
- Gold
For more information on the requirements for each level, please visit the NJDOT Safe Routes to School Resource Center.
How can a Safe Routes to School Regional Coordinator help?
Wherever you live in New Jersey, there is a Safe Routes to School Regional Coordinator who works through the state’s network of Transportation Management Associations (TMAs) available to help you start or expand SRTS programs in your community. Regional Coordinators provide free assistance with:
- Walk and bike to school events
- Bicycle and pedestrian safety education
- School travel plans
- Walk and Bike assessments/audits around schools
- Safe Routes to School Recognition Program applications
- Supportive policies for walking, bicycling, and Complete Streets
If you don’t already know your Safe Routes to school Regional Coordinator, click here to find out which TMA services your community. Your coordinator can answer questions, provide hands-on assistance, and help ensure your nomination is complete and meets program requirements.
Why Should You Apply?
There are several benefits to taking part in the NJ SRTS Recognition Program. Earning recognition at any level highlights a school’s or municipality’s commitment to creating safer, healthier, and more accessible environments for students. This leadership supports the overall goal of the NJ Safe Routes to School program: to increase safe walking and biking opportunities for students throughout the state.
Schools and municipalities that meet the program requirements can also earn points toward Sustainable Jersey and Sustainable Jersey for Schools certification. Please visit the Sustainable Jersey Actions page to learn more!
Additionally, recognized schools and municipalities are highlighted on the statewide Safe Routes to School website and may be featured by their TMA Regional Coordinator, providing positive publicity, increased community pride, and recognition of those involved throughout the process.
Apply Today!
Don’t miss the opportunity to have your school or municipality recognized for your commitment to safe and active transportation. Applications for the 2026 New Jersey Safe Routes to School Recognition Program are due January 31st, 2026.
Please reach out to your Regional Coordinator for additional guidance and resources.