Skip to Content
Streetsblog USA home
Streetsblog USA home
Log In
Streetsblog.net

Sioux Falls Builds Sidewalk-Free School, Tries to Stop Kids From Walking

Stories like this one help explain why we have a childhood obesity epidemic in the United States.

Sioux Falls' McGovern Middle School is close to many students' homes, which is probably why kids want to walk there. Image: KSFY
Sioux Falls' George McGovern Middle School is close to many students' homes, which is probably why kids want to walk there. Image: KSFY
false

Network blog the MinusCar Project reports that a new school recently opened in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, along two busy thoroughfares that have no sidewalks. A local TV station explains that children are still walking to the middle school because it's close to their homes, which has parents concerned for their safety.

Here is the principal's solution:

"[W]e're trying to problem solve and trying to figure out how to best bus 100% of our student population."

Principal [LaVonna] Emanuel wants all students to be safe and if anyone is walking to school, wants to find out why.

"We would definitely want to work with the family find out what's going on, did the child miss the bus? Just what's going on," she said.

Granted, Principal Emanuel likely had no say as to whether sidewalks were installed -- the school district says that was up to the city -- and to her credit she says she wants the school to function as a “neighborhood school” soon. But parents wonder why proper infrastructure wasn’t built at the outset. Said one: "I'm glad they have school buses for everybody, but they should still have it set up so kids can walk. They did take the time to pave the roads and everything around this area that have been dirt and gravel roads. So I think they should take the time to at least put up some sidewalks.”

Elsewhere today: Delaware Bikes reports that a study ranked the First State the country's most dangerous for pedestrians. The author of Transitized explains how he moved across the country with the help of Amtrak. And Better Cities & Towns offers 12 steps for cities looking to reduce pedestrian deaths.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog USA

Team Pedestrian Trounces Team Bus in NYC’s Annual ‘Crosstown Bus Challenge’

Pedestrians beat the bus — but maybe for the last time?

August 8, 2025

Friday Video: How to Gear Up For Your Fall Bike Commute

The only must-haves for a cycling commute are a bike and a place you feel safe riding — but a few accessories don't hurt, either.

August 8, 2025

Can You Tell Me How to Get to Friday’s Headlines?

"Sesame Street," which taught generations of children about life in the big city, might not be long for this world.

August 8, 2025

Talking Headways Podcast: Technical Assistance for Equitable TOD

Emily LaFlamme on how the Elevated Works technical assistance program helps developers bring equitable transit-oriented development to life.

August 7, 2025

Thursday’s Headlines Wonder if Ride-Sharing Is Good, Actually

It's been shown to replace walking, biking and transit trips, but two writers argue it's better than taxis, and at least lifts the burden of car ownership.

August 7, 2025

This Company Wants to Help More Americans Buy Used E-Bikes

Trade wars in Washington are having a chilling effect on the U.S. bike market. Could selling more used cycles fill the gap?

August 7, 2025
See all posts