Publication Details

Engaging youth in local government road safety initiatives

Type: Paper

Author(s): Collard de Beaufort, A.; Pullen-Seufert, Nancy; Marchetti, Lauren M.

Collection title: How Local Governments are Engaging Youth: An Opportunity to Connect with Transportation, a three-part series

Publisher: National Center for Safe Routes to School

Url: https://www.visionzeroforyouth.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/VZY_LocalGov.pdf

Publication Date: 2025

Abstract: Communities are engaging with youth in local government in meaningful ways and enjoying the benefits. We looked at three ways municipalities engage youth: inviting youth to serve on local boards and commissions, creating youth-only boards that report to local government on various issues, and involving youth in specific community initiatives. Fresh perspectives, community connectedness,and workforce development are all ways localgovernments benefit from including youth onshort-term activities that address road safety andtransportation needs. These collaborations alsocreate opportunities for hands-on learning. Localgovernments have resources to engage youth ina variety of ways. Some receive grants to supportteaming up with young people, others give grantsto local organizations, or they develop partnershipswith local community organizations and schools.