Macon-Bibb County is gaining national attention for our work to make it safer for students to walk to school. A recent National Center for Safe Routes to School case study highlights improvements made near Ingram-Pye Elementary, where quick, low-cost changes are helping protect children and families every day.

Last year, Macon-Bibb County was selected for a major Safe Routes to School (SRTS) initiative—an honor awarded to only a few communities nationwide. Macon-Bibb secured a grant through the National Center for Safe Routes to School’s “Quick-Build Projects” program, which was made possible through the financial support of General Motors (GM).

“It’s meaningful to see this work recognized because it reinforces the importance of proactive, data-driven, and community-informed solutions that reduce risk, improve everyday life, and reflect the value of cross-agency coordination to protect our most vulnerable road users,” said Macon-Bibb County Safety Traffic Manager Weston Stroud.

The project focused on Anthony Road, an area that previously lacked strong pedestrian safety features. County crews installed flexible bollards to help slow down traffic and create safer spaces for people walking

Students with U Create Macon and neighbors were also part of the effort, helping paint crosswalks and bring awareness to the importance of safe streets. This hands-on approach not only improved safety but also gave the community a sense of ownership in the project.

“The crosswalk painting for Safe Routes to School Day was an exemplary act of community service by the kids, demonstrating their commitment to safety and making a positive impact in their neighborhood,” said U Create Macon Founder Charise Stephens.

These improvements are especially important in areas where many families rely on walking as their primary way to get to school. By making targeted, affordable upgrades, Macon-Bibb is showing how small changes can make a big difference.

“The installation of street barriers has made a meaningful difference in reducing vehicle speeds in front of Ingram-Pye Elementary School,” said Betty Anderson, Principal at Ingram-Pye Elementary. “This proactive measure has significantly improved student safety, and we are grateful for the commitment shown to our school community and the growing partnership with Safe Routes to School in protecting our children.”

The project is now being recognized as a model for other communities looking to improve pedestrian safety quickly and effectively.

You can read the full case study here.