Minneapolis Receives 2025 Vision Zero for Youth U.S. Leadership Award

Minneapolis has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Vision Zero for Youth U.S. Leadership Award by the National Center for Safe Routes to School, becoming one of only two cities in the nation to receive the honor. This award, now in its eighth year, recognizes cities, counties, and tribal governments committed to eliminating severe injuries and fatalities among children who walk and bike to school.

Prioritizing Youth Transportation Safety

Minneapolis’ recognition is a direct result of its ongoing efforts to prioritize the safety of young pedestrians and cyclists. The city’s approach focuses on strategic policy changes, infrastructure improvements, and cultivating robust partnerships aimed at creating a safer environment for its youngest residents.

“We want our kids to be focused on learning in school, not worrying about whether or not they’ll get there safely,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “This award is a reflection of our commitment to creating safer streets, where everyone—children and adults alike—can walk and bike with confidence.”

Collaborative Efforts for Safer Streets

The Vision Zero for Youth award committee specifically commended the collaborative work between the City of Minneapolis and Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS). Together, they have implemented a series of initiatives under the Vision Zero traffic safety program and Safe Routes to School. These initiatives include:

• Citywide 20 mph Speed Limit on Neighborhood Streets: Aiming to reduce vehicle speeds in areas where children and families are most likely to be walking or biking.
• Traffic Safety Enhancements Around Schools: Improved infrastructure, such as better signage, crosswalks, and lighting, near educational institutions.
• Universal Bicycle Safety Education: All fourth and fifth-grade students in Minneapolis are provided with bike safety education to help them navigate streets safely.
• Pilot Program for Speed Safety Cameras Near Schools: This program aims to discourage speeding near school zones and increase overall traffic safety.
• Youth Engagement in Policy and Street Improvement: Students and their families are actively involved in discussions and decisions about local safety changes.

“These efforts are more than just infrastructure updates; they represent a commitment to fostering a culture of safety,” said MPS Superintendent Dr. Lisa Sayles-Adams. “Our student bike education programs, combined with the city’s safety improvements like reduced speed limits, are making a real difference in the lives of our students.”

Vision Zero for Youth Initiative

The Vision Zero for Youth initiative, launched by the National Center for Safe Routes to School in 2016, encourages communities to prioritize safety for children and youth, focusing on efforts to slow traffic in areas where young people travel. This year’s award marks a milestone, as Minneapolis shares the honor with the Pueblo of Jemez, a small community that has also made significant strides in youth traffic safety.

“These communities have intentionally invested in partnerships and infrastructure changes that will benefit children and families for years to come,” said Nancy Pullen-Seufert, Director of the National Center for Safe Routes to School. “Their achievements are examples of the impact that focused efforts can have on creating safer, more sustainable communities.”

A Model for Other Cities

Minneapolis’ recognition places it among a distinguished list of previous awardees, including Arlington, Va.; Los Angeles; New York City; Fremont, Calif.; Lincoln, Neb.; and Seattle. Notably, the Milwaukee Safe Routes to School Program also received an innovation award during the COVID-19 pandemic for its creative solutions in maintaining safe routes for children during the crisis.

About the National Center for Safe Routes to School

Founded in 2006, the National Center for Safe Routes to School plays a crucial role in promoting safe, active travel for children and youth. The organization supports communities with tools, training, and research to improve walking and biking conditions, while also leading the Vision Zero for Youth Initiative. Over the years, it has provided national coordination and technical assistance for U.S. Walk and Roll to School Day and Bike and Roll to School Day.

The National Center, located at the UNC Highway Safety Research Center, is dedicated to helping communities across the U.S. build a safer, healthier environment for students, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to walk or bike to school safely.

Minneapolis’ recognition with the 2025 Vision Zero for Youth U.S. Leadership Award is a testament to the city’s commitment to making streets safer for its youth. By focusing on policy changes, infrastructure enhancements, and community partnerships, Minneapolis is setting an example for other cities across the country. With the continued collaboration between city officials, schools, and families, Minneapolis is ensuring that children can get to school without the added worry of unsafe roads.