Support programs that encourage physical activity such as Safe Routes to School

Spring is officially here and Jefferson County Public Health encourages everyone to get outside and get active. Physical activity can help improve your health. Check out the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Physical Activity Guidelines and the national “Let’s Move” campaign.

Everyone can benefit from physical activity. Unfortunately, most children in Jefferson County are not getting the recommended amount of physical activity per day. Our 2013 community health assessment data showed that in 2009, only 39% of children ages 5-14 met the physical activity guidelines of 60 minutes of activity a day.

Safe Routes to School Programs SRTS programs provide educational opportunities and infrastructure support for people to increase their physical activity by making it easier and safer to walk and bike in their community. All kids deserve safe routes to school in their community. HB14-1301, is a measure currently in the state legislature to increase walking and bicycling in Colorado through Safe Routes to School (SRTS) programs. The Colorado SRTS program is at risk without passage of House Bill 1301. Consider emailing your elected official to educate them on the importance of creating environments around schools that allow students and parents to walk, bike or scoot safely to school. Click here to sign up for updates and for more information on the bill.