Enhanced Security Measures on Forest Pathways
In an effort to improve traffic safety around Fürth's Humanistic Primary School, the Green Party has proposed the installation of zebra crossings, pedestrian crosswalks that visually alert drivers to pedestrian priority. The school, located on Waldstraße, is situated near a large industrial area with corresponding traffic, leading many children and parents to perceive the school route as dangerous.
Christoph Wallnöfer, a Green Party councilor, has been a vocal advocate for these changes. He argues that making the school route safer for children will result in fewer parents driving their children to school, reducing the danger of accidents directly in the vicinity of the school.
The proposed locations for zebra crossings include the crossing aid on Waldstraße at the height of Marsweg and at all four pedestrian crossings at the entrances and exits of the roundabout Waldstraße / Fronmüllerstraße. These crossings, combined with signage, can reduce vehicle speeds and enhance driver awareness in school zones.
However, the administration has rejected the proposals for zebra crossings at the Humanistic Primary School, citing existing crossing aids, warning signs, and speed limits. Despite this, the Green Party remains committed to improving safety measures around schools and kindergartens, such as the new kindergarten on Humbserstraße, by employing a range of strategies.
Beyond zebra crossings, measures such as speed bumps, raised crosswalks, and curb extensions can be introduced to slow down traffic and shorten crossing distances for pedestrians. Adding wider, well-maintained sidewalks, pedestrian barriers, and proper lighting can create a safer walking environment for children and parents.
Internationally recognized best practices for enhancing pedestrian safety in school zones also emphasise addressing truck traffic concerns. Traffic calming measures should be considered to either reroute trucks away from the school vicinity or impose time restrictions on heavy vehicle access during school start and end times. This reduces the risk to pedestrians and mitigates noise and pollution.
Finally, increasing visibility and signage, such as bright, reflective signs warning drivers of the school zone ahead, coupled with flashing lights during school hours, can help in alerting motorists to reduce their speed. Initiatives to encourage walking or cycling via safe, dedicated paths can also reduce vehicle congestion and promote awareness.
While these recommendations are based on general principles of traffic safety improvement around schools and the specific proposal by the Green Party for zebra crossings, a detailed traffic assessment and community consultation would further tailor solutions effectively to Fürth’s Humanistic Primary School area. The revised Road Traffic Act offers more possibilities and greater freedom for local road traffic authorities to implement such measures.
Education and self-development are crucial aspects that Christoph Wallnöfer, a Green Party councilor, advocates for beyond traffic safety improvements. He suggests that by making the school route safer for children, such as with zebra crossings and other pedestrian safety measures, it may lead to more self-reliant transportation choices among students, thereby promoting education and personal growth through independent commuting.
The Green Party remains committed to employing a range of strategies for enhancing safety around schools and kindergartens, aiming not only to reduce accidents and promote traffic calming measures but also to educate young community members on the importance of self-reliance and the cultivation of valuable life skills.
