Red Bank, along with Red Bank Middle School and Red Bank Primary School, has received Gold-level Recognition from the New Jersey Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program for the 2025–2027 cycle. This recognition is the highest level in the SRTS program, which acknowledges municipalities and schools in New Jersey that work to ensure safe walking and biking routes for students.
The SRTS Recognition Program awards four levels: First Step, Bronze, Silver, and Gold. The Gold level represents a long-term commitment to leadership, community engagement, and improvements in infrastructure. Red Bank’s achievement reflects years of cooperation among local government officials, schools, and community partners.
Efforts contributing to this recognition include encouraging students to walk or bike to school, organizing safety education programs and events, upgrading crosswalks and sidewalks, maintaining travel plans for schools, and supporting policies such as Complete & Green Streets.
Both Red Bank Middle School and Red Bank Primary School also earned Gold recognition. These schools have participated in walk-to-school events and safety programming involving staff, students, parents, and community members.
Councilwoman Nancy Facey-Blackwood played a key role in reaching this milestone. “Her leadership on the Environmental Commission and commitment to Complete & Green Streets policies have laid the groundwork for safer, more accessible routes to school. Councilwoman Facey-Blackwood also emphasizes collaborative, transparent governance — ensuring that residents, families, and students are part of the conversation around mobility and safety.” The press release states that her work is guided by the belief that safe streets are linked not only to transportation but also health, equity, and community connection.
The Borough credited EZ Ride—its Safe Routes Regional Coordinator—for supporting efforts ranging from event organization to technical assistance. Additional thanks were extended to the New Jersey Safe Routes to School Resource Center and the New Jersey Department of Transportation for their ongoing support.
Looking ahead, Red Bank plans to continue hosting walking and biking events while evaluating infrastructure improvements. The Borough will also focus on community engagement initiatives related to transportation planning as it seeks to maintain its Gold status into future cycles.
