BELLEVILLE, N.J. — The Belleville Police Department received the Safe Routes to School Gold Award, the highest recognition within the statewide initiative, during a recent ceremony hosted by EZ-Ride and the New Jersey Department of Transportation. The accolade was presented at an awards luncheon held earlier this month.
The award acknowledges the department’s efforts to enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety for children, highlighting its collaboration with the Belleville Green Team to implement new safety programs and initiatives annually. The New Jersey Safe Routes Program, supported by the NJ Department of Transportation, aims to improve conditions for youth traveling to school through active methods such as walking and biking.
In a statement, the police department affirmed its commitment to child safety. “The Belleville Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety of the children,” read a post on the department’s social media account.
The program’s goals include creating safe and equitable opportunities for active travel in school zones across New Jersey, which can contribute to healthier and more appealing conditions for all residents.
Belleville’s recognition underlines the town’s ongoing efforts to prioritize community safety and well-being through collaborative projects and focused strategies.