School walking route maps depict streets, schools, traffic signals, marked crosswalks, sidewalks, crossing guards. By using arrow markings, the maps indicate the suggested walking route for each student from their home to their school, utilizing approved school crossing locations. The maps are updated annually for each elementary school in the Springfield R-12 School District, with the following objectives and considerations:
- Routes combine as students approach the school to group the students as soon as possible for greater safety and to consolidate the number of street crossings to reduce total vehicle-pedestrian exposures.
- Routes should make the maximum use of existing traffic control (signals and stop signs).
- Adequate sight distance between the motorists and the pedestrian must be available at all crossings.