Two high school students from Lord Byng Secondary School in Vancouver, Victoria and Minsung, are advocating for better traffic safety measures near their school following a tragic incident where their classmate was hit by a speeding car. Despite some road safety improvements implemented after the accident, the intersection near the school still lacks proper sidewalks and safe crossings, causing concern for students like Victoria and Minsung.
During school hours and rush hour, crossing the street near their school becomes a nerve-wracking experience, according to Victoria. Even with the addition of a new sidewalk, the area remains daunting due to its high traffic volume.
In January 2024, a 15-year-old student sustained severe injuries in a car collision while crossing West 15th Avenue near Wallace Street. The incident prompted the Vancouver Police Department to take action, closing the median to traffic and installing concrete barriers to enhance pedestrian safety.
Initially facing challenges in expressing their concerns to the Vancouver School Board (VSB), Victoria and Minsung found support from their principal, who facilitated communication with district officials. They now feel empowered to engage with the city to prevent similar accidents not only at their school but also at other educational institutions.
The duo is eager for the proposed safety upgrades to progress swiftly, as the trauma from last year’s accident continues to impact students’ sense of security. The VSB reassures ongoing collaboration with the city to enhance safety measures at the intersection.