Stockton, CA (October 14, 2026) – Public Health Services’ Injury Prevention Program announced today that it was awarded a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to support its Bicyclist and Pedestrian Safety Program. The program will promote safe practices for people walking and biking and emphasize the critical role of a driver’s responsibility to look out for people outside of vehicles.

“We are thrilled to accept this funding to support our Injury Prevention Program,” said Rachel Zerbo, Supervising Public Health Educator with San Joaquin County Public Health Services. “In 2023, 275 pedestrians and 182 bicyclists were killed or injured in crashes in San Joaquin County. These numbers reinforce the importance of continued prevention efforts. Through education, helmet distribution, and outreach to higher-risk populations, our goal is to give residents of all ages the knowledge and resources they need to safely walk and bike in their communities.”

Grant funds will support various activities focused on bicycle and pedestrian safety:

• Bicycle Rodeos that educate youth on safe riding behaviors.
• Helmet fitting inspections and distribution of helmets to children in need.
• Community and school education presentations.
• Education to help older residents, people experiencing homelessness and other populations most impacted by bicyclist and pedestrian-related crashes get to destinations safely.
• Distribution of bicycle and pedestrian safety equipment such as bicycle lights, reflective gear, and more.

“Helmets for bicycle riders offer a critical safety benefit”, states San Joaquin County Public Health Services’ Public Health Officer, Dr. Maggie Park. “ We know from the studies that unhelmeted child riders risk a 3-fold higher instance of serious head and face injuries, compared to helmeted riders. This grant continues our work to promote safe riding and protect the well-being of children.”

“We are committed to building a culture of safety across California,” said OTS Director Stephanie Dougherty.

“Through innovative safety programs and our continued partnerships, we’re shaping a culture where safe walking, biking and driving are the expectation and the norm.” The grant program runs through September 2027.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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