Denton City Officials Update on Schools Construction and Sidewalk Safety Measures

In a recent Denton Mobility Committee meeting, significant strides were made towards improving student safety and traffic flow around local schools. The opening of Rhiney Road to Bonnie Bray on August 20 was highlighted as a crucial step in alleviating congestion for students at Reeves Elementary and Denton High School. The committee anticipates completing the remaining sidewalk by the end of the month, enhancing pedestrian access in the area.

Committee members raised concerns about the safety of children crossing busy roads, particularly at the intersection of Bonnie Brae and Rhiney Road. Discussions centered on the width of the future crosswalk, which is expected to be approximately 70 feet wide, accommodating six lanes of traffic. However, the absence of a pedestrian island raised alarms among committee members, who emphasized the need for safe crossing measures.

A temporary sidewalk will be installed to facilitate safe access for students until a permanent solution is finalized. While a crossing guard is currently managing traffic, there are no plans to stripe the crossing area this school year due to liability concerns, which has left some parents worried about their children's safety. Committee members expressed a strong desire for immediate action, advocating for additional safety measures such as striping and signage to alert drivers to the presence of children.

The committee acknowledged the frustrations of parents in the North Lakes neighborhood, where inadequate infrastructure has led some families to withdraw their children from Denton ISD. The committee is committed to addressing these concerns and ensuring that safe routes to school are prioritized.

As construction progresses, the committee plans to enhance communication with the community regarding project timelines and safety measures. The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration between city officials and the school district to create a safer environment for students. The committee's proactive approach aims to mitigate risks and improve mobility for all residents in Denton.