Module - News

Back-to-school safety: Travel safely to and from school this fall

Burlington, Ont.—Sept. 4, 2026— As students return to classrooms this September, the City of Burlington is reminding residents that everyone has a role to play in keeping school journeys safe.

Increased activity around schools means drivers, cyclists, pedestrians and other road users must stay alert, slow down and share the road safely.

The City continues to invest in infrastructure and programs that support safe, active and sustainable travel, helping residents of all ages move safely throughout the community.

Helping students travel safely

Drivers can help create a safer environment around schools by obeying school zone speed limits, eliminating distractions, and anticipating unexpected actions from children and youth. Watch for students crossing streets, entering and exiting vehicles and travelling by bike. Always stop when a school bus has its stop lights flashing.

About 120 school crossing guards work in Burlington each school year, helping children safely cross streets. Drivers are reminded to obey crossing guard directions and come to a complete stop when children are crossing.

Families can reinforce safe travel habits by using designated crossings, following crossing signals and making eye contact with drivers before crossing the street. Visit the City's website for traffic safety tips and resources.

Take Burlington Transit

Burlington Transit offers a convenient and affordable option for students travelling to school. If using Presto, youth ages 13 to 19 can ride Burlington Transit for $2 per, and ride free on weekdays after 6 p.m. and on weekends. Children 12 and under ride free when travelling with a parent or guardian.

Full-time students attending Brock University - Burlington Campus, McMaster University, Mohawk College and Redeemer University can access unlimited travel through Burlington Transit with a $32 monthly U-Pass Add-on.

Eligible students can purchase a U-Pass Add-on by presenting a student card and proof of current full-time enrolment at the Burlington Transit Customer Service counter located inside Burlington GO Station, 2101 Fairview St. Learn more about Burlington Transit student fares at: burlington.ca/en/transit/fares.aspx

Know the rules around e-scooters and e-bikes

As e-scooters become more popular, students and parents may be wondering whether they can be used to travel to and from school. E-scooters are not a transportation option for most school-aged children. Riders must be at least 16 years old, and e-scooters are only allowed on the designated section of the Centennial Trail between Brant Street, the Elgin Promenade and Burloak Drive, as part of the Centennial Trail E-Scooter Pilot. They are not permitted on any other pathway, trail, sidewalk or public road in Burlington. Students who are 16 or 17 years old and are using the Centennial Trail to get to school must use a helmet and cannot exceed a maximum speed of 24 km/hr.

Parents, caregivers and students should be aware that e-bikes can only be operated by individuals aged 16 and older. Parents are responsible for ensuring minors comply with all e-bike regulations, including wearing a helmet and riding only on permitted public roads and streets. E-bikes are prohibited on sidewalks, trails and in parks.

Supporting active transportation

Walking, cycling and other forms of active transportation can help students build healthy travel habits while reducing traffic congestion around schools. Burlington continues to invest in infrastructure that makes it safer and easier for residents of all ages to travel throughout the community.

Families can find active school travel resources, including an interactive map that estimates walking and cycling times to school, at EveryMetreCounts.ca.

Burlington is a city where people, nature and business thrive. Sign up to learn more about Burlington at burlington.ca/subscribe and follow @CityBurlington on social media.

Quotes

Mayor Marianne Meed Ward

“Every parent and caregiver wants to know their child will get to school and back home safely. That has to be our top priority. The City is continuing to invest in traffic safety, active transportation and Burlington Transit to help make those journeys safer and easier for students and families. As we head into the new school year, I’m asking everyone who uses our roads to slow down, stay alert and take extra care around schools.”

Rory Nisan, Deputy Mayor of the Environment

“Safe, convenient transportation options are important for students and families getting to and from school. The City is continuing to support kids who want to walk, ride their bikes or take the bus. As students head back to school, please take extra care on our roads.”

Lisa Kearns, Deputy Mayor of Community Engagement & Partnerships

“Creating safer school zones takes ongoing education, awareness and partnership with our community. The City continues to work with residents, schools and community partners to share information and promote safe behaviours around our schools and neighbourhoods. As students head back to school, everyone is encouraged to stay aware, follow the rules of the road and help create a safer environment for students.”

Links and Resources

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Media contact:
City of Burlington Corporate Communications

communications@burlington.ca