MassDOT Launches 2026 Safe Routes to School Contest

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has kicked off its 10th annual Safe Routes to School Yard Sign Design Contest for 2026. This contest invites second through eighth-grade students from participating Safe Routes to School (SRTS) partner public schools to design yard signs.

According to a Winthrop Transcript report, the SRTS program highlights partnerships among community groups, local law enforcement, schools, and public health departments to promote safer routes to school. 

This year's theme focuses on the concept of “no idling.” Students are being asked to create original designs that illustrate the importance of turning off vehicle engines to promote a healthy environment for nearby pedestrians. For the fourth consecutive year, multilingual designs are highly encouraged.

“Massachusetts schools are ranked No. 1 in the nation, and under Governor Healey, safety for all will always be our top priority. As MassDOT launches this year's Safe Routes to School contest, we take great pride in partnering with schools, communities, and today's youth to promote safety across all modes of travel to and from school,” said Interim MassDOT Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phil Eng in a statement shared with the Winthrop Transcript.

Contest materials, including a blank template, are available online. Past winning designs are available on the Safe Routes to School webpage of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts website.

All designs must be submitted by Monday, Feb. 23.

The SRTS program is funded by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and currently reaches more than 1,290 schools across over 285 communities in Massachusetts.