July 28, 2023

JCPD encourages travel safety during school year

With area schools set to begin in early August – and the first day of classes for the fall 2023 semester at East Tennessee State University scheduled for Aug. 28 – the Johnson City Police Department reminds drivers and pedestrians to travel with caution.

• Drivers should be aware of children waiting at bus stops, particularly as mornings become darker.
• Always stop for buses when the stop arm is out.
• Allow extra time for travel before and after school hours, when buses are picking up and dropping off students.
• Motorists should be alert for students walking on and near the ETSU campus.
• ETSU students are advised that crossing State of Franklin Road in the area the Brinkley Center may result in a jaywalking citation. Pedestrians must use the pedestrian bridge or a nearby crosswalk.
• Pedestrians of all ages are encouraged to use caution near traffic. Do not become distracted and look at cell phones or wear headphones when crossing streets.

“The Police Department is asking motorists to drive with caution, especially in school zones, as the school year begins,” said Johnson City School Resource Officer Jeff Jenkins. “Excited children unfamiliar with road safety can dart unexpectedly into traffic and surprise motorists. With school back in session, it is everyone’s responsibility to ensure that students arrive at school safely.”

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