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USD 261 to remove bus stops where new sidewalks exist; letters to affected families planned
Summary
District transportation staff told the board they will remove bus eligibility for students in four neighborhoods where sidewalks were installed, affecting a small number of students; the board directed communication to families and noted larger policy tension with the state's 2.5-mile rule for bus eligibility.
District transportation staff said recent sidewalk construction in four neighborhoods means some students will no longer meet the district's "unsafe walking path" criteria and therefore will not be eligible for district bus service in the 2025-26 school year.
Staff identified four areas where sidewalks or pedestrian routes have been completed: (1) area around Seneca/60 and Playgan's, (2) Timber Creek area, (3) Peachwood Manor (near Broadway), and (4) South Broadway. The presenter reported specific student counts drawn from 2024-25 routing: for example, Peachwood/related areas totalled 22 affected students; other pockets listed in the presentation included clusters tied to Freeman and Nelson attendance boundaries. Transportation staff recommended maintaining the district's existing practice that students with an available safe walking path are not provided bus service.
The board discussed safety concerns — particularly for elementary-age children crossing large drainage ditches or walking along busy corridors — and emphasized clear, early communication. Transportation staff said letters would go to affected families beginning immediately, with additional notices on July 1 and August 1, so families can plan for latchkey or other arrangements. Board members noted the state's 2.5-mile eligibility standard and said they will raise the issue in legislative discussions on school finance and transportation during the upcoming state formula revision.
No vote was required; the presentation concluded with a recommendation to keep eligibility consistent with current district practice and to notify families. Staff said they will work with latchkey and other programs to help families who need alternative options.
