While we are in the middle of summer vacation, the students of our neighborhood are still top of mind. Faced with a persistent and growing problem of traffic snarls and parking problems surrounding many of our schools, a number of school zone safety reviews are underway. Schools reviewed include John Ross Robertson and Allenby public elementary schools, as well as Yeshiva Yesodei Hotaroh School.
Typically six to nine decades old, these schools were not built to accommodate the driving needs of today’s busy families and rely on street parking to offset the shortage. Unfortunately, many of the surrounding homes also rely on street parking. Although mindful of these needs, the City of Toronto: Transportation Services must ensure the smooth flow of two-way traffic on the narrow roads in our ward and, importantly, the safety of students.
To help strike a balance in communities across the city, school zone guidelines were established several years ago. One important guideline is to encourage driving behaviours that ensure students are dropped off or picked up on the side of the street closest to the school, eliminating jaywalking between cars. Bylaws are usually applicable Monday to Friday and can be tailored to specific times of day.
Compliance with school zone parking and traffic regulations is enhanced when the community believes the bylaws make sense. The input of school administrators, parents and residents is therefore essential. I look forward to speaking with involved community members on these matters in the weeks ahead, knowing our efforts result in making choices that work best for all.