Pedestrian Peril: Winston-Salem Parents Demand Safer Streets Near Parkland High School

Growing Safety Concerns Spark Community Outcry

Residents in Winston-Salem are raising alarms over dangerous walking conditions near Parkland High School, where students and locals navigate high-traffic roads without adequate crosswalks or lighting. The issue has gained urgency after several near-miss incidents involving speeding vehicles.

Why This Matters Now

• Student Safety at Risk: Over 1,800 students attend Parkland High, with many walking through hazardous intersections daily
• Accident History: Three reported pedestrian close calls in the past semester alone
• Infrastructure Gaps: Missing sidewalks and faded crosswalks create unnecessary dangers

The Human Toll Behind the Statistics

Parent Marissa Cortez describes watching her daughter narrowly avoid being hit last month: "She had the walk signal, but a truck ran right through it. These kids shouldn't need luck to get to school safely." Local business owner Devonte Williams adds, "I've seen students running across four lanes of traffic at rush hour - it's only a matter of time before tragedy strikes."

Proposed Solutions Under Discussion

1. Installing traffic-calming speed bumps on West Mountain Street
2. Adding rectangular rapid-flashing beacon crosswalks
3. Extending sidewalk networks to connect nearby neighborhoods
4. Implementing school zone speed cameras

Officials Respond to Growing Pressure

The Winston-Salem Department of Transportation confirms they're evaluating the area after receiving multiple 311 complaints. "We're working with the school district to prioritize the most critical improvements," stated spokesperson Elena Rodriguez. However, some residents remain skeptical after years of similar promises.

What Do You Think?

• Should the city fast-track infrastructure changes or conduct lengthy safety studies first?
• Would speed cameras near schools punish drivers or genuinely protect kids?
• Is pedestrian safety primarily a parent's responsibility or a city planning issue?
• Could redesigning school zones inadvertently increase traffic congestion?