As the summer break ends, the City of Palm Coast wishes students and teachers a great 2024-2025 school year, which officially begins on Monday, August 12. The return to school also means the return of school buses on our roads, increased traffic around school zones, and more pedestrians and bicyclists in neighborhoods.
“Our residents’ safety is our top priority, and staying vigilant on the roadways is essential to ensuring everyone’s well-being,” said Acting City Manager Lauren Johnston. “We want to remind drivers to be cautious and aware, especially during peak bus route hours.”
Here are some important reminders for all drivers as the new school year begins:
- School Zone Safety – When you see the yellow lights blinking in a school zone, the 20 mph speed limit is in effect. School zones are high-traffic areas, with both motorists and pedestrians. It’s crucial to maintain the 20 mph limit, obey traffic signals, and respect crossing guards during these times.
- Stopping at Bus Stops – When driving behind a school bus, remember that motorists must stop when the bus stops. It is both dangerous and illegal to pass a stopped bus from either direction, unless on a divided highway. If your commute coincides with peak bus hours, plan to allow extra time for bus stops.
- No Texting and Driving – While texting and driving should always be avoided, it’s particularly important during the school year. This rule also applies to parents waiting in car rider lines during pickup and drop-off times. For the safety of students, school faculty, and others, refrain from texting while behind the wheel.
“These safety tips not only help protect our community, but they also help you avoid costly traffic citations,” said Commander Brian Finn of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office. “Let’s all do our part to ensure a safe and smooth start to the school year.”
As the City of Palm Coast prepares for the new school year, we wish all students, teachers, and staff an exciting, enriching, and safe 2024-2025 school year.
