Alta assisted San Mateo County in evaluating their Safe Routes to School program, developing a five-year strategic plan, and creating data-driven tools to prioritize infrastructure improvements and enhance safety for youth commuters across the region.

Alta, in partnership with the San Mateo County Office of Education (SMCOE) and the Cities/Counties of San Mateo County (C/CAG), set out to shape a safer, more connected future for students. Through the careful evaluation of the region’s existing Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program, Alta laid the groundwork for strategic progress over the next five years.

This initiative addressed two core goals: ensuring student safety and empowering local governments to prioritize smart infrastructure improvements. One of the project’s standout achievements is the Youth-Based High-Injury Network (y-HIN), a targeted analysis of road segments where youth-related pedestrian and bicycle collisions have occurred. With this tool, decision-makers can zero in on high-risk areas, ensuring that the most critical safety needs are addressed first.

The Five-Year Evaluation Report (2015-2020) uncovered key insights on community engagement, equity, safety, and transportation choices. Armed with detailed collision infographics, Alta also provided local jurisdictions with the data needed to understand trends and design practical countermeasures.

Looking ahead, the 2022-2027 SRTS Strategy paves the way for stronger partnerships and a future where more families rely on active, safe transportation to and from school. Together with SMCOE, C/CAG, and member cities, Alta is building a safer, healthier, and more connected community—one step, pedal, and partnership at a time.