POLAND, Ohio – The village will receive $650,000 as part of Ohio’s $7.6 million investment in infrastructure and education to improve safety for K-12 students who walk or bike to school.
Poland will use the funds for high-visibility crosswalks at 10 signalized intersections; new sidewalks on College Street, Lee Drive, Michigan Avenue and Ohio Avenue; a rapid flashing beacon at College and Lee streets; pedestrian countdown signals and push buttons at state Route 170 and Nesbitt Road; and pedestrian lighting on College and Cortland streets.
In total, 24 projects across 12 counties were selected to receive funding through the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Safe Routes to School program. This statewide initiative helps communities build and improve transportation infrastructure – such as sidewalks, crosswalks, bike lanes and traffic-calming features – around schools.
“These are more than just transportation projects – they are investments in the health, safety and future of our children,” Gov. Mike DeWine said. “These funds will help ensure more Ohio students have safe, accessible options to get to school.”
This year’s funding supports a mix of infrastructure and noninfrastructure initiatives. The 24 awarded projects include right-of-way acquisition, design and construction between state fiscal years 2026 and 2028, as well as noninfrastructure activities such as school travel plans, public education and safety campaigns in fiscal year 2026.
“Walking or biking to school is a simple yet powerful way to promote healthier kids, safer neighborhoods and more connected communities,” said ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn. “Safe Routes to School is a key part of ODOT’s broader commitment to active transportation, helping communities thrive by supporting safer streets and encouraging daily physical activity among our youngest citizens.”