AB2522, the Pedestrian Safety Act of 2000 signed into law by Governor Davis in October 2000, contains several provisions that will become effective January 1st 2001, including a new law that requires at least 30 days of public notice before a crosswalk can be removed with a provision for citizens to request a public hearing. In addition, AB2522 requires at least one question on pedestrian rights on every drivers test and related curriculum in traffic schools, a new "due care" clause for drivers approaching pedestrians in crosswalks, prohibitions on vehicles blocking crosswalks except for right turns on red, and new fines for blocking or failing to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks or on sidewalks in front of driveways.

Caltrans is also preparing to solicit applications from local governments for the second round of Safe Routes to School grants due in April 2001. In addition, and as a result of the passage of the STPP-sponsored AB2522, an additional $8 million will be made available to local governments for more general pedestrian safety projects and education programs. A similar competitive grant process and application procedure for the new fund will be released by Caltrans in the coming weeks -- applications will likely be due in May 2001.

Language for AB2522 can be found at www.assembly.ca.gov under "legislation." Caltrans guidelines and application forms or both Safe Routes to School funding and the new pedestrian safety fund will soon be available through the Office of Local Programs or by visiting www.dot.ca.gov/hq/LocalPrograms/.