Laura Hine elected chair of school transportation safety committee

In a significant move to enhance student safety and transportation services, the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners has appointed Laura Hine, a school board member, as chair of a newly formed committee focused on improving transportation for youth. This decision comes in response to growing concerns about the safety of students commuting to school, particularly during early morning hours when visibility is low.

During the recent meeting, the committee discussed various strategies to optimize transportation options, including the integration of public transportation alongside traditional school bus services. A key point of discussion was the urgent need for improved safety measures, especially in light of a tragic incident where a high school student was struck by a vehicle while returning home after escorting his sister to her bus stop.

The committee emphasized the importance of enhancing street lighting and installing better crosswalks to ensure that drivers are aware of pedestrian crossings. They are exploring the implementation of additional signage to alert motorists to exercise caution in these areas. The discussions reflect a proactive approach to safeguarding students and ensuring they can travel to and from school safely.

As the committee moves forward, the focus will remain on developing actionable solutions that address these critical safety concerns, ultimately aiming to create a safer environment for all students in Pinellas County.