WTNH reports that Wolcott is adopting a new school bus technology that will catch drivers who illegally pass buses. http://www.wtnh.com/dpp/news/new_haven_cty/wolcott-going-high-tech-to-keep-kids-safe
In May, the BOE Planning Committee discussed streamlining bus routes to reduce the number of stops along bus routes and adopt the same technology being used on Wolcotts' school buses. Some routes have elementary school buses (not kindergarten) pickup/drop off in front of individual homes, multiple times, along the same street! It is estimated that reducing the number of stops on our bus routes would save the school district about $50,000 annually in overtime costs. The study will continue over the summer. I will post details on the bus routes as they are made available.
Regarding the school bus technology, Cheshire is going to pilot it this coming school year. The camera will capture license plates of vehicles illegally passing school buses which is a growing problem in Cheshire. Those passing the bus may find a ticket in the mail.
According to WTNH: "Here's how that works: Violators will be slapped with a 450 dollar ticket. The town will get 85 percent of the money and SmartBus will also get a cut."
While bus drivers have been complaining about drivers illegally passing them along bus routes the Planning Committee was surprised to learn that the problem may be at its' worst in school parking lots. Buses are passed in front of school pick up areas illegally which is a concern considering that some school pickups areas don't allow vehicles other than school buses during drop-off/pick up hours. Parking in handicapped spots, parking in fire lanes and leaving the vehicle unattended were also raised.
