St. Cloud area schools are among more than 16,000 youth who will benefit from a grant to support pedestrian and bicycle safety education.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation awarded $96,000 to 42 schools, scout groups, 4-H clubs, parks and recreation and after school clubs through its Safe Routes to School program.

The money will be used to educate students so they can enjoy lifelong skills to walk and bike safely.

St. Cloud Area Public School District received bicycle fleets, trailers and supplies for training. Part of the education includes the Walk! Bike! Fun! curriculum for children ages 5-13.

MnDOT adds the rate of youth bicycling and walking to school has decreased from 48 to 13 percent since the 1960’s.