Birmingham Residents Raise Concerns Over Dangerous School Crossing
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A growing concern among parents in the Glen Iris community has prompted calls for action regarding the safety of a busy roadway that children must cross to get to school. Local father Kevin Ware is leading the charge, raising alarms about the dangers his daughter faces while walking to EPIC Alternative Elementary.
Everyday Dangers on 10th Avenue South
Ware describes crossing 10th Avenue South as reminiscent of a “Talladega Expressway.” He and other parents have expressed their fears during rush hour when traffic flows heavily in both directions. “It’s kind of harrowing sometimes trying to cross in the midst of the rush hour traffic,” he noted. To avoid the crosswalk at 11th Street South, which parents deem unsafe due to visibility issues, Ware and others opt to cross at the highest point of the road, where they can better see oncoming vehicles.
Parents like Bianca Bennett echo Ware’s concerns, stating, “It’s a nightmare unless you’re lucky enough to get to park over there.” She highlighted the challenges faced by parents and caregivers who need to navigate the lengthy pick-up lines, often forcing them into risky situations. “It’s dangerous because you’ve got some people who speed and may not have time to stop,” Bennett added, emphasizing the risks posed to children.
Previous Changes and Current Review
In 2019, the City of Birmingham implemented a road diet project that narrowed 10th Avenue South from four lanes to three. This project also introduced bike lanes and additional parking spots. However, the adjustments to pedestrian crossing locations were not included in this initiative. Birmingham’s Director of Transportation, James Fowler, stated that the focus was primarily on traffic striping related to a major utility project in the area.
Fowler explained, “The width reduction is helpful for pedestrians crossing the street, but we didn’t look at changing pedestrian crossing locations specifically.” He has been made aware of parents’ concerns in front of EPIC and has committed to devising a plan for improving safety within the next thirty days.
A Unified Request for Change
Ware has proactively reached out to various community leaders, including pastors, principals, and city officials, hoping to draw attention to the issue before it becomes a tragedy. “I would hate to hear about or be the fatality that then motivates action,” he cautioned, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
The Birmingham City Schools Board of Education has also expressed its commitment to addressing these safety concerns. They have initiated discussions within their Operations Department to review the traffic patterns around the school and are in communication with the City of Birmingham regarding the matter. The Board assured that the safety of students and staff remains a top priority.
Looking Ahead
The dialogue surrounding pedestrian safety on 10th Avenue South highlights a broader community concern regarding safe access to schools. As residents await further responses and potential solutions from city officials, both parents and children hope for a tangible change that ensures a safer environment for their daily school commutes.
In the meantime, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and continue speaking up about the conditions that affect their safety. Crossings in busy areas like 10th Avenue South require careful consideration from city planners to prevent accidents and protect the youngest members of the Birmingham community.
