In April 2026, Healthy Anne Arundel Coalition was granted $60,000 to implement a safe Routes to School project through the Maryland Department of Health. Currently, 160 Eastport Elementary students are eligible to use active transport to and from school. However, more than half (83) of the eligible students are driven to school by a parent or caregiver. Through the Safe Routes to School Project, we aim to improve walkability to encourage students to get regular exercise through active transportation, such as walking or riding a bike to and from school. The Safe Routes to School Project has 4 main strategies:

1. By June 30, 2026, conduct a Walk Audit at Eastport Elementary School to determine the safety and accessibility of routes traveled by students to and from the school.

   • Click here if you would like to participate in the walk audit.

2. From May 1 to May 31, 2026, launch a promotional campaign to increase awareness of National Walking Month.

   • Click here to visit the National Walking Month/ Walk Maryland campaign page.

3. By September 30, 2026, implement a non-infrastructure project based on the findings of a Walk Audit to improve walkability at Eastport Elementary School.

   • More information about the non-infrastructure project is coming soon!

4. By September 30, 2026, hold an educational bicycle and pedestrian safety event at Eastport Elementary School to improve safe practices for students going to and from school.

   • Bicycle and Pedestrian education to be provided by PedalPower Kids.