Event Details
Madison has earned the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s 2026 Vision Zero Program of Distinction for Schools. The statewide initiative recognizes educational communities that cultivate a culture of street safety through hands-on education, infrastructure improvements, and grassroots advocacy.
Madison Public Schools was formally presented with the award on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at CTDOT headquarters in Newington. Madison Superintendent of Schools Dr. Craig Cooke and Madison Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) member Jessica Joseff accepted the honor on behalf of the district and community.
Reflecting on the milestone, Joseff emphasized both the collective effort and the journey ahead: "The Madison School systems, BPAC, and the CT DOT Safe Routes to School (SRTS) have worked hard to ensure our students are educated on bicycle and pedestrian safety," said Joseff. "There is still work to be done, especially sidewalks needed to safely connect our neighborhood schools. For now, I am honored to represent all the hard work so many have contributed to earn the Vision Zero Distinction Award."
Dr. Cooke echoed that gratitude: "I am grateful for the acknowledgement and the opportunity our great schools provide for our students," added Dr. Cooke. "I'd like to thank Jes Joseff and our team of parents for spearheading these great opportunities. Also, thank you to the Madison Police and school administrators and staff for their work with these events."
School-Wide Momentum on Foot and Wheels
Following an energetic 2025–2026 school year, Madison Public Schools earned distinction through high-participation events, interdepartmental collaboration, and ongoing infrastructure advocacy.
The district coordinated three successful "Walk and Bike to School" events—one at Brown Elementary and two at Neck River Elementary. Brown Elementary kicked off the momentum in autumn 2025, where Principal Spooner and Brown PTO board member Seth Lee guided students and families along a scenic local trail. Neck River drew more than 400 participants in fall 2025 and nearly 250 in spring 2026, transforming neighborhood routes into lively corridors of helmets, running shoes, and school spirit.
Active transportation extends across all grade levels. Polson Middle School engages runners through its co-ed cross country team, while Daniel Hand High School promotes outdoor transit and athletics through its Trail Club, track team, and cross country programs.
Creative Community Partnerships
Madison’s street safety achievements reflect close teamwork among schools, municipal leaders, and law enforcement:
- "Scoops for Safety": BPAC partnered with the Madison Police Department to reward kids spotted practicing safe walking and riding habits with gift cards for Ashley's Ice Cream.
- "Bike Bash": A community-wide safety day where youth practiced road navigation, bike handling, and helmet fitting. BPAC coordinated the event alongside Safe Routes to School (SRTS) coordinator Bridget Moriarty and local community partners.
Grant Dollars Put Directly to Work
A targeted micro-grant secured by BPAC and Neck River Elementary has delivered tangible safety upgrades to town families:
- New bike racks ordered for Neck River Elementary School
- A heavy-duty public bike repair station and air pump installed at the Surf Club
- Safety and educational yard signs reminding motorists to share the road
- Free safety gear (certified helmets, bells, mirrors, locks) and a youth bicycle raffle at the Bauer Park Harvest Festival on Saturday, October 17
The Advocacy Behind the Award
Much of Madison’s success stems from BPAC's tireless grassroots advocacy. Working alongside public schools, public works, youth services, Bauer Park, CT DOT SRTS, and first responders, BPAC has driven community education and a three-year campaign for dedicated pedestrian infrastructure.
A central priority remains securing continuous, safe pedestrian and cycling corridors connecting Madison’s school cluster: Daniel Hand High School, Walter C. Polson Middle School, and Neck River Elementary School. State officials noted that Madison’s holistic model—combining classroom education, town hall cooperation, enforcement partnerships, and youth engagement—serves as a blueprint for communities across Connecticut.
Support safer walking and biking routes in Madison by signing up here: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/019dfdb2352072a79b13ab71dc9c1499
Photo (left to right): Bridget Moriarty (CT DOT Safe Routes to School Coordinator), Jessica Joseff (Madison BPAC Member), Dr. Craig Cooke (Madison Superintendent), and Garrett T. Eucalitto (Commissioner of CTDOT).