The Los Angeles Transportation Committee convened on November 20, 2024, to discuss critical issues surrounding the deployment and funding of school crossing guards. The meeting highlighted the challenges faced by the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) in ensuring the safety of children traveling to school amid budgetary constraints.

LADOT officials reported that while the department has hired a record number of crossing guards—over 500—demand continues to exceed available resources. Approximately half of the requested locations for crossing guards remain unstaffed. To address this, LADOT has developed a data-driven approach to prioritize crossing guard placements based on predictive safety factors, which include traffic control measures, pedestrian volumes, and crash history.

The committee discussed the need for a revised methodology that not only focuses on safety but also incorporates equity in crossing guard deployment. This new approach aims to assess school crossing needs citywide, rather than solely relying on requests from the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD).

However, the program faces significant funding challenges. Increased wages and bonuses for crossing guards, coupled with a budget reduction directive from the City Administrative Officer, have created a projected deficit of $3.3 million for the crossing guard program. This shortfall threatens the program's sustainability for the upcoming school year, as current funding levels are insufficient to cover operational costs beyond March 2025.

The committee acknowledged the importance of addressing these funding issues to maintain the safety of school routes for children. As discussions continue, LADOT officials are expected to return with a comprehensive plan that balances safety, equity, and budgetary realities.