Alameda City Council this past Tuesday issued a proclamation declaring October 9th, 2013 to be “Walk and Roll to School Day 2013”. Safe Routes to Schools Site Coordinators Rachel Davidman and Carrie Harvilla were in attendance to receive the proclamation alongside Haight Elementary Parent Champion Meghan Thornton and her kindergartner.

In reading the proclamation, Mayor Marie Gilmore noted the positive health and environmental impacts of walking and bicycling to school, along with the benefits to the broader community. The occasion, pictured above, is symbolic of Safe Routes’ longstanding work in the city of Alameda – dedicated parents, happy kids, city staff and elected officials coming together and recognizing their tremendous achievement and impact of their work throughout the city.

Alameda has a long history of outstanding participation in International Walk and Roll to School Day, thanks in part to Bike Walk Alameda Board Member Audrey Lord-Hausman and City of Alameda Transportation coordinator and parent champion at Lum Elementary, Gail Payne. This year the event involves all of the K-8 schools in Alameda Unified School District, and many city council and school board members will be participating.