Schools at the heart of communities: Grant possibilities

ODOT's Pedestrian and Bicycle Grant Program provides about $5 million every two years that may go to Oregon cities and counties for design and construction of pedestrian and bicycle facilities within public rights-of-way.

Michael Ronkin, manager of the program, said that three to five joint city/county/school grant applications have been received each cycle since about 1980.

His best tip: "If schools are well-sited within neighborhoods, improvements have a better chance of being funded because they'll serve communities, not just kids walking or biking to school."

The next grant cycle will begin in spring 2012. For grant applications and more information, visit the website.