FDOT partners with University of Florida for back-to-school safety

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - The Florida Department of Transportation has partnered up with the University of Florida and University of Florida Police Department for back-to-school safety.

FDOT and partners engaged with students, faculty, and residents for their “Stay Safe, Stay Cool” event for the first day of classes.

The event promotes Target Zero safety practices such a properly using crosswalks, wearing helmets, avoiding texting while driving, and not driving under the influence.

Target Zero is FDOT’s initiative aimed to eliminate transportation-related injuries and fatalities across Florida.

“This is a great partnership that we have with the Department of Transportation here in Florida,” said Bart Knowles Chief of Police at University of Florida. “It’s an opportunity for us to go out and interact with our students on the first day of classes, their safety is vital for our institution here at the University of Florida.”

Joining the event was the famous Koda the Fluff therapy dog and her owner.

“We were excited to make the trip up and spread some happiness up here and help bring some positivity to safety,” says Koda the Fluff’s owner Jena Mckinstry. “Hopefully get some more eyes on an important thing in the community that can possibly save some lives.”

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