During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on traffic safety and infrastructure improvements in school zones, particularly regarding the responsibilities of personnel directing traffic and the need for speed control measures.
Concerns were raised about the adequacy of current traffic management, especially in school zones like Eberly and Park Place, where speeding has been reported. Board members highlighted the necessity for certified personnel to direct traffic, emphasizing that typically only emergency services are authorized to do so. The conversation pointed out that while temporary measures may be acceptable, a more structured approach is needed for long-term safety.
The issue of speed bumps was also discussed, with some members advocating for their installation to slow down traffic in these areas. However, it was noted that municipalities often hesitate to implement such measures due to maintenance challenges, particularly during winter months when snow plowing is required. A formal speed study, involving radar monitoring, was suggested as a prerequisite for any action regarding speed control.
Additionally, the board considered the inclusion of a traffic loop in the base budget, which has been a longstanding topic of discussion. Emphasizing student safety, members expressed strong support for the loop's inclusion, especially in light of a recent grant that would contribute $4,450 toward the project. The urgency of addressing safety concerns was underscored by personal anecdotes from board members about near-miss incidents involving students.
As the meeting progressed, the board acknowledged the importance of prioritizing student safety in their planning and budgeting decisions, setting the stage for further discussions on traffic management and infrastructure improvements in the coming sessions.