Kettering Enhances Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Initiatives

KETTERING ENHANCES PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE SAFETY INITIATIVES

KETTERING, OHIO - October 23, 2025 - The City of Kettering is reinforcing its commitment to pedestrian and bicycle safety. While safety has always been a top priority for the City, we are now intensifying efforts on education, enforcement and community awareness to ensure the well-being of all residents.

"The safety of our community, especially our children, is our highest priority," said Mayor Peggy Lehner. "We are committed to doing everything we can to protect our residents as they walk, bike and travel throughout Kettering. By working together, we can create a safer environment for everyone."

Kettering values being a walkable and bikeable community, and maintaining safe streets for everyone remains paramount. We are asking all drivers to increase their awareness, slow down and exercise extra caution, especially in school zones and residential areas where children are present.

"Kettering City Schools is fully committed to partnering with the City on this critical safety initiative," said Superintendent Mindy McCarty-Stewart. "Safety education aligns perfectly with our mission of ensuring all Firebirds are respectful, responsible and safe."

The City would like to provide the following community reminders:

• Drivers: Slow down, eliminate distractions and be especially vigilant in school zones and residential areas.
• Pedestrians: Only cross at designated crosswalks and obey traffic signals.
• Cyclists and Scooter Riders: Walk your bike or scooter across the street at crosswalks.

The City of Kettering is taking a comprehensive approach to pedestrian and bicycle safety through:

• Collaboration with Kettering City Schools to update school travel plans
• Evaluation and enhancement of traffic signage in high-traffic areas
• Increased safety education programming with schools and the community
• A joint safety campaign with local schools
• Increased police enforcement in school zones
• Continued deployment of crossing guards at key locations

We currently have crossing guards on staff but are experiencing a shortage. Community members interested in serving as crossing guards and helping keep students safe are encouraged to visit our website for more information at https://www.ketteringoh.org/jobs.

"We encourage residents to be active partners in keeping our streets safe," said Police Chief Chip Protsman. "If you witness dangerous driving behaviors or notice other traffic safety issues, please report them to the Kettering Police non-emergency line at (937) 296-2555 or on our website" (at https://www.ketteringoh.org/report-a-crime/).

Through enhanced collaboration, education and community engagement, we are dedicated to ensuring that all residents can safely enjoy our community's walkable and bikeable community.

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