Councillor pushes for stricter school-zone rules in Winnipeg

Proposed Changes for School Drop-Offs and Pick-Ups in Winnipeg

A one-minute time limit and increased traffic enforcement may be introduced for drop-offs and pickups at elementary schools. This aims to make the process quicker and safer.

Coun. Markus Chambers is urging city staff to create a standardized “stop, drop and go” program. This program would require designated drop-off and pickup areas at each school, along with the strict time limit.

“Every year, with the start of (school), I get continuous calls regarding some parents who prioritize their own child’s needs over that of all others… and it’s creating real challenges around school zones,” said Chambers (St. Norbert-Seine River).

Parents wait in vehicles to pick up their children outside École St. Norbert in Winnipeg on Monday.

After residents raised safety concerns at École St. Norbert Immersion last fall, he decided to advocate for changes.

“I saw many infractions and safety concerns.… (This) would decrease the number of idling vehicles and potentially dangerous maneuvers, including U-turns in school zones,” he said.

The councillor believes some parents make illegal U-turns to avoid congestion around schools.

The designated areas should have clear signs indicating rules and penalties for non-compliance. The city should also work with police and the Winnipeg Parking Authority to ensure “a targeted increase of enforcement presence,” said Chambers.

After a period of education and warnings for drivers, consistent ticketing should follow, he said.

While designated drop-off and pickup zones exist at many Winnipeg schools, Chambers believes a standard system is needed to ensure compliance at every school.

Caregivers picking up students at École St. Norbert Immersion on Monday had mixed reactions to the idea. Some agreed that a clear pickup zone is needed to reduce safety risks.

“It’s quite congested, it’s quite chaotic, (it) causes a lot of tension,” said Stephanie Roy, who walked to meet her kids.

Jacqueline Bernardin noted that some vehicles have blocked sidewalks and intersections, while others have backed up close to children crossing the street.

“It’s very unsafe.… If they start enforcing (the rules), maybe that will help,” said Bernardin.

Jennifer Gyles believes a one-minute time limit for drop-offs or pickups would be impossible to follow.

Others felt that drivers already behave safely around the school.

Jennifer Gyles, who arrived early to pick up her grandkids, said both drivers and students are generally cautious.

She fears that a one-minute time limit would be hard to follow. “I’m picking up three different kids that are all getting out of different classes.… It would be very hard to do that,” said Gyles.

Adam Boone agreed. “Having two children in the school, I would like to see a better plan implemented.… (But) one minute is very tight. We know children are not on a fast schedule, so by the time they get their boots on and jackets, I don’t feel that’s enough time,” said Boone.

The president of the Manitoba School Boards Association said safety around pickups and drop-offs is a concern at many schools in the province.

However, he believes that increasing enforcement of existing rules is the best way to address it.

“A lack of rules is not the problem here. A lack of enforcement of those rules is a problem,” said Alan Campbell.

He stated that a one-minute time limit for pickups or drop-offs could create new safety concerns.

“The last thing you want is a motorist in a rush in a school zone,” he said.

Adam Boone also thinks one minute isn’t enough time for parents to pick up their children.

The city must consult school divisions before making any changes, as the divisions would be heavily involved in implementing them, he said.

A request to interview a member of the Winnipeg Parking Authority was not granted on Monday. In a statement, a city spokesman said the authority proactively patrols over 240 schools in Winnipeg, focusing on zones with known compliance and safety issues.

Those exceeding the maximum time allowed in designated drop-off and pickup zones can face a $70 fine. A $100 penalty can be charged for violating “no stopping” rules, such as in school-bus loading zones or near crosswalks, sidewalks, or driveways, said spokesman Adam Campbell.

The city encourages anyone who sees parking violations to report them to 311, which can help determine where patrols are conducted.

The Riel community committee will vote on Chambers’ motion on Wednesday. If approved, the city council’s public works committee will consider ordering a staff report on the matter, due back in about six months.