Keep Middlesex Moving, Inc. (KMM), Middlesex County’s nonprofit transportation management association, is partnering with Walk Bloustein Bike Bloustein (WB3) to hold a safety-inspired contest.
“Paint the Pavement” is an educational campaign aimed at raising awareness of distracted walking with painted messages or pictures on the sidewalk.
Middlesex County students in 11th and 12th grades, as well as students enrolled in Rutgers University, Middlesex County College or another institute of higher learning in Middlesex County, are challenged to create in words or graphics in a design that conveys a message related to distracted walking.
“Distracted pedestrians amble down sidewalks, through parking lots and across the street oblivious to what is going on around them. Whether they are texting, talking, listening to music, conversing with friends or daydreaming, distracted pedestrians are a danger to themselves and others,” said Bill Neary, KMM executive director.
KMM reached out to WB3, is a graduate student interest group whose goal is to provide an opportunity for students to learn more about bicycle and pedestrian planning and advocate for improved biking and walking facilities on the Rutgers University campus.
“WB3 is excited to join KMM, engage with our community and work towards improving and beautifying our pedestrian spaces,” said WB3 representative Dan Brooks.
Five winners will be awarded prizes of $100 each and a chance to paint their designs on pavement at a location to be determined in Middlesex County. Designs must be submitted by the close of the business day on March 28.
For entry rules and information, visit kmm.org/paintthepavement or contact Cristina C. Fowler at [email protected].
The program is made possible through a grant from the New Jersey Department of Highway Traffic Safety.