Waterloo elementary school about to get new sidewalks - KWWL

The path to school is about to get a little bit safer for students at one Waterloo school.

New sidewalks and crosswalks near Lincoln Elementary school are planned for construction. It's thanks to the Safe Route to Schools program. The program is a federally funded and aimed at making it easier for children to walk to school.

Monday night, Waterloo City Council members approved a construction contract for more than $130,000. The city received a grant of more than $154,000 to cover design and construction costs.

School leaders say the new sidewalks are going to make a big difference in the lives of their students.

Lincoln Elementary assistant principal, Carrie Heinzerling said that sidewalks are going to provide a safe route for students. She says it will promote a healthy lifestyle and give children a chance to walk to school instead of take the bus.

Construction is expected to start in a few months. The project should be completed by the end of the year.