The Town of Cobourg is trying out a new pilot project at a local elementary school to discourage speeding and to keeping guards and students safe.

There are a number of busy crossings, including at D’Arcy and Elgin streets, which requires two guards, on King Street East around Cobourg Collegiate Institute and C.R. Gummow Public School and on Burnham Street where there are two elementary schools. Renee Champagne, from the Town of Cobourg’s engineering department, said speeding has been identified in the latter’s area and the town is launching a pilot project in front of Burnham Public School. Notre Dame Elementary School is also nearby.

Champagne reminds motorists to stop when a crossing guard signals to do so, as it’s the law, and to also check for students crossing before turning at intersections. Vehicles should remain stopped until students and the guard have cleared the crossing. 

Drivers who don’t follow rules for stopping requirements are subject to a substantial fine and losing three demerit points, Champagne said.

“Our crossing guards report issues regarding speeding or any other issues that are occurring at their crossing to myself and we work with Cobourg Police and Cobourg Bylaw Enforcement to direct patrols where necessary in locations that guards are reporting speeding, fail to stop and parking in no-parking areas,” Champagne said.

Cobourg currently has eight part-time seasonal guards and two spares. The town will be looking to recruit more spares for September. 

School Crossing Guard Appreciation Week ran June 5-9. Champagne said the town appreciates the crossing guards for the important work they do.

Listen to the full interview with Renee Champagne here: