Baltimore, MD (October 02, 2019) – Today, Department of Transportation Director Steve Sharkey was joined by Baltimore City Schools Chief of Staff Alison Perkins-Cohen and the Maryland Department of Transportation’s Highway Safety Office along with parents, teachers, school children and crossing guards to celebrate International Walk To School Day.  The event, which promotes pedestrian and bicycle safety, was held at Mt. Royal Elementary/Middle School located at 121 McMechen Street in Bolton Hill.

The Department of Transportation led students, teachers, parents and community leaders on an educational walk to the school to promote safe pedestrian and bicycle practices.  The walk helped to provide students with important safety information, such as how to safely cross city streets, obey school crossing guards and be visible to drivers.

“The City of Baltimore is fully committed to ensuring the safety of all our residents, especially our children,” said Mayor Bernard C. "Jack" Young. “As we move the City of Baltimore into the 21st century, my administration will continue to build on our city’s progress by investing in programs, policies, and transportation infrastructure that supports my top priorities of providing an infrastructure and transportation network that is safe and easy to access by all pedestrians.”

“This worldwide event brings awareness to the importance of pedestrian and bicycle safety while teaching young students how to safely walk to school,” said Director Sharkey.  “Walk to School Day is a great way to promote safety and support for safe, active travel in Baltimore City.” 

Students from Mt. Royal Elementary/Middle School joined thousands of schools across the United States, along with children from 40 countries around the world to celebrate International Walk to School Day.  Baltimore City has been conducting Walk to School Day activities since its inception in 1997. 

“Walk to School Day highlights the importance of our children having a safe route to and from school each day, and I know that Mayor Young and Director Sharkey share this priority,” said Councilman Costello.  “I am grateful we have the opportunity to work with parents and the Bolton Hill community to reinforce this for our children at Mt. Royal EMS.”

In addition to promoting pedestrian safety, International Walk to School Day also focuses on important health issues such as increasing physical activity, reducing traffic congestion for a cleaner environment, and building connections between students, parents and the community. 

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