Speed Humps Added Near LA Schools for Safety

As the new school year approaches for students in the Los Angeles Unified School District, city officials have ramped up efforts to improve street safety around local campuses. On Friday, Mayor Karen Bass announced the installation of over 450 slow zones and 250 speed bumps in response to rising pedestrian fatalities. "The city moved urgently to install hundreds of safety provisions near schools ahead of this new school year," Bass stated, emphasizing the collaborative effort with the City Council and the school district to enhance student safety. City departments have completed various safety projects, including "quick build" initiatives at more than 180 intersections near 40 schools. The measures aim to address common speeding issues, with the establishment of 15 mph speed limits in designated "School Slow Zones" across more than 450 streets. Additionally, the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) plans to deploy over 500 crossing guards for the 2024-25 school year, marking the largest deployment in over a decade. Heather Hutt, chair of the City Council's Transportation Committee, highlighted the importance of these safety measures as the school year begins. LADOT General Manager Laura Rubio-Cornejo noted that the recent safety treatments and crossing guard hires represent the city's most significant investment in preventing dangerous driving behavior near schools. LAUSD Superintendent Alberto Carvalho expressed gratitude for the city's swift actions, acknowledging the tragic traffic incidents that have affected families in recent years. He reaffirmed the district's commitment to working collaboratively with city officials to ensure the safety and wellbeing of students and the school community.