Letter To The Editor – Oct. 27, 2011

Dear Editor,

    I read the article by Jack Gurner, Safety Is Priority With Students Exiting Buses, with dismay.  The careless actions of the driver referred to in the article is reprehensible and without justification.  Maybe the driver was using a cell phone, or something else commanded their attention.  I am sure all parents, as well as drivers, support Nathan’s Law, and everyone must be alert to protect the future generations who ride the school buses. 

    I congratulate Mr. King on his promotion to Transportation Director. I am sure he will do a good job in protecting the students. However, I hope Mr. King will inform the school bus drivers that obeying the speed  limits is also important in safety and welfare, and protection of the school buses as well.  I live on Market Street and have learned that I must adjust my coming and going to coincide with the school hours.  One important speed limit begins at the intersection of Market and Vaiden Streets.  The speed limit from there to Main Street is 20MPH.  In thinking back over the past fifteen years it is most unusual for a school bus to obey that speed limit, based on my observation.  Especially at the last dog-leg to the right just before Main Street.

    Yet, it is not only school buses that exceed the posted speed limit.  Some of those students who drive their vehicles to school by and large violate the speed limit as well.  I have had several near misses from speeding vehicles driven by students.   I know they may have something else on their minds, or something draws their attention away from safe driving, but their welfare as well as others is at stake.   Maybe someone in the school system can counsel the students in safe driving habits.  

Sincerely and with safety for all in mind, I am,
James S. Allen
Water Valley