MEDIA ALERT
WHAT: The City's SGF Yields pedestrian safety program has partnered with area neighborhoods to host five Lantern Walk events in recognition of National Pedestrian Safety Month.
WHEN: 7 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 1
WHERE: Neighborhoods across the community, including Delaware, Rountree, West Central, Galloway Village and Woodland Heights Neighborhoods. Location maps available at springfieldmo.gov/lanternwalk
In addition to individual neighborhood events, Mayor Ken McClure will kick off Pedestrian Safety Month with a proclamation at 6:30 p.m., Oct. 1 near the intersection of Cherry Street and Pickwick Avenue, prior to the Rountree Neighborhood event.
More about Lantern Walks
The City of Springfield’s SGF Yields pedestrian safety program is encouraging families to let their lights shine this October during National Pedestrian Safety Month. The 
program has partnered with area neighborhoods to host five Lantern Walk events planned for 7 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 1 at locations throughout the community.
October has been designated as National Pedestrian Safety Month by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Federal Highway Administration. October was chosen due to the rise in pedestrian fatalities measured nationally between October and December.
Lantern Walks encourage neighbors, schools and families to build and decorate luminaries prior to the event. Beginning at sunset, participants will stroll along a designated route through the neighborhood, showing off their lanterns and learning about safety at various stations along the way.
“Last year two neighborhoods organized their first Lantern Walks. They were very popular with children and parents,” says Mandy Buettgen-Quinn, City Traffic Safety Professional. “Not only do kids learn about walking safely, but they and their parents get to practice these safety skills along the way when parading their lanterns through the neighborhood.”
Six neighborhoods are participating in 2022, including Woodland Heights, West Central, Galloway Village, Rountree and Delaware. The Greater Parkcrest Neighborhood plans to host an event at a later date. Individual neighborhood event details and route maps can be found at springfieldmo.gov/lanternwalk. Walkers are invited to join an event anywhere along a designated route.
“It is important for parents to understand that every time they cross a street with their children, they have the opportunity to involve their kids and teach them traffic safety skills,” said Buettgen-Quinn. “This event does not only offer an opportunity for residents to socialize and enjoy the fall season, but also teaches drivers and walkers about crosswalk safety in a fun way.”
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For more information, contact Communication Coordinator Kristen Milam at 573-819-3713 or [email protected] or Mandy Buettgen-Quinn at 417-576-4302 or [email protected].