Mayor Jane Castor, City Of Tampa | City Of Tampa website
Mayor Jane Castor, City Of Tampa | City Of Tampa website
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor participated in a rescheduled National Walk/Bike to School Day event at Kenneth E. Adum K-8 Magnet School on November 6, 2024. The event was organized by Sidewalk Stompers, an advocacy nonprofit focused on improving student health and road safety.
The original date for the nationwide event was October 9, but local schools postponed their celebrations due to hurricane disruptions. Emily Hinsdale, President of Sidewalk Stompers, highlighted the significance of providing safe routes for children. "National Walk to School Day recognizes the importance of giving children safe and healthy routes to school," she said. She emphasized that active participation in such events benefits not only individual health but also community wellness.
Mayor Castor expressed her commitment to ensuring children's safety during their commutes. "We all know our children are the future. We must do all we can to ensure they're able to get to and from school safely. It will always be the right thing to do," she stated.
Adum K-8 is a newly established school in Hillsborough County serving 1,100 students since August 12, 2024. The development of safe walking and biking routes involved collaboration between Sidewalk Stompers, Tampa’s Mobility Department, Adum PTSA, Hillsborough County Sheriff Department's crossing guard program, and Hillsborough County Schools.
This year saw record participation with 39 district schools registered for the event despite some rescheduling after hurricanes affected plans for 17 schools.
Sidewalk Stompers has been operational since 2018 and partners with multiple public schools across Hillsborough County reaching over 2,000 students through its programs. The organization aims to promote active transportation among young people.
The organization acknowledged AtkinsRealis as a sponsor for this year's events.
For more information about Sidewalk Stompers or upcoming events visit www.sidewalkstompers.org or follow them on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram under "Sidewalk Stompers."