Asotin County has been awarded a $25,000 grant from the Governors Highway Safety Association and the Washington Traffic Safety Commission. The funding will jump start the development, implementation, and evaluation of a new Youth Active Transportation Safety Program through the creation of a Traffic Garden to be located at Highland Elementary, adjacent to the Clarkston Boys & Girls Club. Additionally, a small-scale mobile traffic garden will be available to travel to other schools and events.
A Traffic Garden is a specially designed, motor-vehicle–free space that simulates real roadway conditions in a fun and engaging way. It features scaled-down traffic signs, crosswalks, lanes, signals, and intersections, providing children with an interactive environment to practice and internalize the rules of the road. According to a news release, the hands-on approach not only promotes traffic safety awareness but also encourages active transportation—helping kids learn essential skills while enjoying physical activity.
Local businesses, community members, and organizations are encouraged to contribute their expertise, time, and resources to help build and facilitate this unique educational experience.
For more information about the Traffic Garden project visit: https://asotingarfieldemployment4all.org/traffic-garden/. Or contact Cynthia Tierney, Community Services Director, at 208-791-8557, or email ctierney@asotincountywa.gov
For partnership opportunities or donation details, contact Jan Goodheart, Retired Teachers Association, at 208-413-2312, or by email at jgoodheart2007@gmail.com.
