PD re Autumn Roadway Action

Good Morning Jackson!
 
Well it’s hard to believe but summer vacation is rapidly coming to a close, and the school bell will ring once again!  I hope everyone got a chance to enjoy some quality time with family and friends during the break.  With School starting,  we will have new challenges around the town for pedestrians and motorists alike.  Here are some things to keep in mind while making your way when out and about.
 
School Buses and Bus Stops.  We have not seen a school bus for some time now and their re-appearance, along with school age children at bus stops, can pose safety concerns.  Please be extra vigilant, and watch for kids on foot as well as school buses stopping to load or unload children.  School bus violations carry stiff penalties, not to mention the risk of injury should a child be struck.
 
Traffic Congestion.  From 8:00am until 8:30am the Jackson Grammar School and the Post Office complex are a buzz of activity.  Busy Moms and Dads will be providing shuttle service to their kids from now until next June!  Please slow down and be extra careful in this area. Special attention should be given to the Veteran’s park as a new pedestrian crosswalk has been installed.  People will no longer cross at the stop sign but a little further up, by the top of the grassy area.  This means drivers should slow down considerably as they approach the left turn that merges to the Village Loop as walkers may be present.
 
Student Drop Off Rules.  OK, self appointed chauffeurs, this tip is for you!  When dropping off students please remember, the BUS LOOP IS CLOSED to vehicle traffic from 8:15-8:30am.  Please stay out of the loop as it could interfere with the school busses crossing Black Mountain Road swiftly.  All student drop offs should be done from the Post Office/Whitney’s Center lot.
 
Fare Weather Pedestrians/Bicyclists.  With decent fall weather still abounding, our community roadways are still a recreational playground of sorts.  Bicyclists, runners, walkers and even some skateboarders are enjoying the last of autumn action!  Please remember that when approaching pedestrians and bicyclists, you are required by law to be extra careful and in many cases yield the right of way.  These enthusiasts also have responsibilities and must comply with the rules of the roadway specific to their mode of transportation. 
 
Here at the Jackson Police Department, we look forward to standing our post at the school, and watching over each and every student. Here’s hoping for a happy, healthy and safe school year for all!
 
Regards,
Chief Chris Perley
Jackson Police Department