Under these extraordinary circumstances caused by the war in our eastern neighbors, we see even more the need to take care of security in everyday life. Despite the troubling situation due to Russia's attack on Ukraine and the necessity to help those in need, we must also take care of Poland's continued development and ensure the safety of our country's residents. A good way is to change the mentality and habits of road users - both drivers and pedestrians. First and foremost we want to educate non-motorized traffic participants. Promoting proper habits and behavior on the road is necessary from an early age,

says Minister of Development Funds and Regional Policy Grzegorz Puda.

The total pool of money from the EU Funds of the Infrastructure and Environment Program (OPI&E) to subsidize projects is about PLN 100 million. Local governments will be able to receive these funds to retrofit pedestrian crossings, as well as introduce traffic education in schools. Its main goal will be to learn how to safely move in traffic without the need to leave the facility. The amount of EU funding is up to 85% of eligible costs.

Road safety is one of the priorities of the Infrastructure and Environment Program. Under OPI&E various training courses and campaigns are conducted to change people's social behavior and awareness in the context of road safety.

Above all, with vulnerable traffic participants in mind, we are opening up the possibility of further important projects in the area of road safety. It is pedestrians and cyclists who are most at risk in car accidents,

says Deputy Minister Waldemar Buda, and adds:

We hope that the combination of educational activities with the retrofitting or construction of new pedestrian crossings will contribute to a comprehensive improvement in safety on Polish roads.

Applications for projects will be accepted by the Center for EU Transport Projects from March 31 to April 30 this year. Details of the competition are to be found on the CEUTP website.