Keeping Stratford’s children safe should always be a community priority.
In March, the Town of Stratford and Stratford Public Schools announced a new school bus stop-arm safety program designed to address drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses and put students at risk.
As part of the initiative, 63 buses in Stratford’s school bus fleet were equipped with stop-arm safety technology capable of detecting vehicles that pass a bus while its stop signal is activated.
The program began with a warning period to give drivers an opportunity to become familiar with the new enforcement system. Full enforcement was scheduled to begin April 13.
When the technology records a potential violation, the footage is reviewed by the Stratford Police Department before a citation can be issued. Under Connecticut law, illegally passing a stopped school bus can result in a $250 civil penalty for a first offense.
Mayor David Chess emphasized student safety in announcing the program, calling the protection of Stratford’s students the town’s top priority.
The technology is only part of the solution.
Every driver has a responsibility to pay attention when approaching a school bus. Flashing lights and an extended stop arm mean children may be entering or crossing the roadway, and taking a few extra moments to stop can prevent a tragedy.
We appreciate the work of the Town of Stratford, Stratford Public Schools, the Stratford Police Department, bus drivers, school staff, and families who work every day to keep our students safe.
As a community, we all have a role to play.
When the school bus stops, we stop.