Comments on: Letter: School zone lights

By: Kristy J. Kernen

Kristy J. Kernen — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 00:41:43 +0000

All the school bus drivers are given very specific instructions regarding "child safety", which is their major concern. It's time more drivers took a deep breath & realize that a few seconds out of ones' life is really not a big deal....you still get to your destination...unless you cause an accident because you "just have to go faster".

By: Raymond Egan

Raymond Egan — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 22:08:01 +0000

In the absence of flashing notices, not only do motorists have to wonder what is meant by "When Children Are Present" but also whether the reduced speed times apply and/or are enforced during school vacations. holidays, etc. If the school districts would like to make friends, and a dependence on levies certainly calls for more friends, they could start by working with the County officials to standardize.. all school zones, signs and - to the greatest extent possible - start and stop times

By: Brian

Brian — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 17:56:19 +0000

I agree that all school zones should be 20 mph at all times and strictly enforced. My wife and I have seen children waiting in a crosswalk to cross a busy intersection while cars, trucks etc. buzz on by. We have also had impatient drivers honk or attempt to pass us after we have slowed to a stop to let a child or person cross. Most school zones have parks and playgrounds in the area where children are playing year round into the evening, not only 30 minutes prior and following school times. Maybe Mr. Ellis should take a little field trip and visit the areas and try to cross the street a few times. Then he can let us know how many vehicles passed him and how many slowed down to let him cross. Give us a call on your cell phone Mr. Ellis. But please use a hands free device.

By: Bunnee

Bunnee — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 17:29:39 +0000

I agree. I see cars blatantly ignore the flashing lights by Park Lodge and John Dower, even when others are obeying the lower speed limit. The amount of extra time spent driving a couple blocks at 20 mph vs 25 mph is minimal - the injury or worse of a child is far more important. I think it is important to note that one should be cautious around children, even outside school zones. Do you slow down for skateboarders or kids walking along the street (many of which do not have sidewalks) or on bicycles? Mr. Ellis will probably not get much sympathy for his position from the parents in this community. I certainly have none - and my children are in their 20s.

By: Cheri'

Cheri' — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 15:06:13 +0000

Since when is protecting our children a waste of time? I have watched countless speeding cars blast through school zones over the years and have personally witnessed several VERY close calls. High School "kids" get just as mindless when excited as grade schoolers and have been known to race across a busy street while "playing". Mr. Ellis, you might want to find an alternate route so you aren't "wasting your time." No offense, but it isn't about you - it is about ALL OUR CHILDREN. As noted by the CPSD official, there are MANY activities around our schools that the community wouldn't be aware of save for the warning lights. Deal with it - leave earlier, drive slowly. (ps if this is all you have to complain about, life must be pretty good!)