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DPS says contractor model stabilizes crossing-guard coverage; sites prioritized by risk and utilization
Summary
DPS told the joint meeting it has used a contractor, All City Management, and a data-driven ranking system to prioritize crossing-guard assignments; staff said some low-utilization posts were reduced while high-risk sites (e.g., Hope Valley Elementary) remain a priority.
Durham Public Schools staff said the district relies on a scoring system that considers posted speed limits, traffic controls, lane counts, proximity to crossing points and whether a location falls in the county's high-injury network to prioritize crossing-guard deployment. Anthony White said that using a contracted model with All City Management "has allowed us to provide more consistent coverage while reducing the administrative burden."
White noted several adjustments based on utilization reviews: coverage was reduced at CC Spalding and Sandy Rias because those locations showed consistently low usage, Wyse Smith Elementary was reduced from two crossing guards to one, and Murray Massenburg — added in January — continues to show clear need. White said Hope Valley Elementary remains a high priority because of traffic volume and roadway conditions.
County and city staff said demand exceeds current capacity: the county can support a maximum of 19 sites (15 crossing-guard positions managed by the Durham Police Department and four contracted through private providers). Officials flagged funding limits and asked DPS to return with per-site cost estimates and a plan for how municipal partners might contribute to expanding coverage.
