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RSU 15 examines bus safety add‑ons, crossing‑arm retrofits and possible state funding through LD 159
Summary
District staff reviewed optional safety features and bus types under the State master agreement, noting 18-bus fleet, 10 buses needing crossing‑arm retrofits and that extended stop arms would be added to all 18; LD 159 was cited as a possible funding source but remains pending.
Transportation staff explained that RSU 15 purchases buses through the State of Maine master agreement; the base contract often omits add‑on safety features that districts must select and pay for separately. The presentation highlighted two prioritized safety upgrades: a student‑facing crossing arm (which moves students farther from the bus so the driver can see them) and an extended stop arm with LED lighting to increase visibility for passing traffic.
The presenter said the district’s fleet totals 18 buses; 10 would need crossing‑arm retrofits and none in the fleet currently have the enhanced stop arm. The district would add stop arms to all 18 buses if funded. Superintendent Dr. Turner noted LD 159 is pending legislation that could provide funding assistance for crossing arms but its final form and availability are not yet known.
Board members and staff clarified that while some safety items are termed “optional” on the vendor’s base price, many are required by law and therefore must be added at purchase. The district also compared bus body styles (type C “dog‑nose” vs. type D “flat‑nose”), with type D buses less suitable because they would not fit the local bus garage and cost approximately 7.4% more. The administration said they are monitoring potential state funding and will bring revised budget figures to the finance committee.
