As students return to the classroom on Tuesday, Sept. 8, drivers are reminded to slow down and watch for more children walking, rolling and riding to and from school.
The City of Penticton has now completed Safe Routes to School studies for all public elementary schools, supporting safer, more accessible routes while encouraging more students to walk, roll and ride to school.
Caregivers are encouraged to visit the City's website to view updated Safe Routes to School maps, which identify recommended routes, key crossings and other safety features. New maps and school travel studies are now available for Wiltse Elementary, Queen's Park Elementary and KVR Elementary.
Maps for schools studied in previous years have also been updated to reflect recent traffic safety improvements, including new multi-use paths, crosswalk and sidewalk enhancements, Kiss & Go zones and Drive to Five locations. A walking school bus service is also being provided for students at Skaha Lake Elementary.
Residents can learn more about these services, explore updated maps and read the school reports at penticton.ca/safe-routes.
Safety Reminders
With the return to school and increased activity around school zones, the City of Penticton and Penticton RCMP are reminding drivers to slow down, stay alert and watch for increased pedestrian and cyclist traffic near schools.
School zone speed limits of 30 km/h are in effect at all times, unless otherwise posted. Drivers are encouraged to give themselves extra time, avoid distractions and use extra caution around crosswalks, intersections, and school drop-off areas.
Remember:
- Do not make U-turns within school zones.
- Park and stop only in designated areas.
- Stop for school buses when red lights are flashing.
- Watch for children who may unexpectedly enter the roadway.
- Always have children enter and exit vehicles from the sidewalk side and never cross mid-block.
The City's Bylaw Services team and Penticton RCMP will be monitoring high-traffic school areas throughout the school year to help keep students safe. For more back-to-school tips, visit penticton.ca/back-to-school.