As a parent, I am deeply concerned about the safety of the students who attend Robinson Middle School in Kingsport, TN. Currently, there is a lack of crosswalks and designated school zones near the school premises. This poses a significant risk to our children who walk or bike to school every day.

According to the National Center for Safe Routes to School, approximately 30% of child pedestrian injuries occur between 7-8 AM and 3-4 PM - typical school commuting hours (National Center for Safe Routes to School). Furthermore, studies have shown that properly implemented crosswalks can reduce pedestrian crashes by more than 40% (Federal Highway Administration).

School zones with reduced speed limits are also proven effective in reducing accidents involving children. The American Journal of Public Health reports that cities which have implemented these measures saw a decrease in fatal child pedestrian accidents by up to 13%.

According to Tntrafficsafety.org Tennessee pedestrian fatalities have grown from 89 deaths in 2006 to 172 deaths in 2020. This number continues to grow at an alarming rate due to distracted drivers, unsafe infrastructure and the prevalence of large SUVs on the road. 

The traffic on Memorial Blvd is an issue for the students who cross the road every day traveling to and from school. The marked crossing is simply not enough to keep the students safe. There is also a safety concern on E Center St. due to the unmarked crosswalk and heavy traffic. Thankfully most days after school Officer Hensley is able to keep our students safe by directing traffic on E Center but more safety measures need to take place. There are many times students cross this street before school and after school functions while no guard is present. 

According to the Times News, Kingsport grew at a faster pace than Bristol or Johnson City between 2010 and 2020. Kingsport's growth was more than double the 7.35% growth the city experienced between 2000 and 2010. A large majority of the people in our community have no clue where the schools are located or to be watching for students in those areas. It is the responsibility of the community leaders to make these school zones visible and safe. 

If the Fort Henry Mall continues to develop as the city previously announced, this problem will only get worse. The traffic in this area will grow at an alarming rate and the risk will increase greatly. There will be an increase in semi trucks delivering goods to the mall and people going to shop.

The plans for the improvements/widening to state route 126 will also increase the flow of traffic in the area. These plans show the traffic flow coming from interstate 81 directly into Kingsport and turning down E Center St. towards the downtown area.  This flow of traffic will make it nearly impossible for students to cross the road without a proper crosswalk. 

If you travel around Dobyns-Bennet High School you will see there are safety measures in place to protect students in that area. Robinson Middle School and all other schools in this city need safety measures as well. Students who live 1.5 miles or less from the schools are not provided bus service and many have no choice but to walk. 

There are several options that could help make our students safe. 

Increased traffic monitoring

Rapid Flashing Beacons

Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon

Sidewalk bulb-outs and pedestrian islands

**School zone speed limits with warning light systems & a crossing guard**                                                   

We need to prioritize our children's safety over convenience or cost. We need crosswalks and designated school zones around RNR now more than ever. Sign this petition if you believe the safety of our students is important and lives are more valuable than the cost to make these improvements.