BOISE, Idaho (AP) -- Cities and towns across Idaho that want to boost safety for kids riding their bikes or walking to school can now get a dose of federal funding to make it happen.

The U.S. Department of Transportation is making cash available, for projects that have the potential to increase the number of pedestrian- or bike-riding students at the state's elementary and middle schools.

Jo O'Connor, coordinator for the Idaho Safe Route to School program within the Idaho Transportation Department, says 30 communities across the state have gotten the federal money, for programs that include infrastructure improvements.

In the past, cities like Priest River, New Plymouth, American Falls and Boise have benefited.

Letter to the ITD from cities or towns planning to seek the cash are due by the end of October.