Parents in one Bucks County school district are saying no way to a cost-cutting proposal that would end school bus service for as many as 700 kids.
The Central Bucks School District in Doylestown, Pa. says they can save $262,434 next year if they eliminate part of their service to seven schools -- four of which are elementary schools. The district is hoping to use the saved cash to close a budget gap in the next term.
But parents say the elimination of bus service would put their kids at risk and add time to their commute.
Students left on the curb by the proposal would be forced to walk an average of 1 mile, according to the district. For some kids that distance would grow to a mile and half.
Parents also argue that many of the walking routes are along heavily traveled roads that are narrow and don't have sidewalks.
Sharon Fleck says her 7-year-old daughter would have to travel down Burnt House Hill Road -- a hilly, two-lane rural path with no sidewalk or shoulder -- on her way to Gayman Elementary.
"It's not a safe road, I personally wouldn't walk on that road, so I certainly don't want my daughter to have to walk along that road," she said.
Fleck's not alone. At a packed board meeting Tuesday night, parents expressed their distain for the proposal.
"Is a traffic light being installed," an angry mother asked. "Are four crossing guards going to be made available?"
"How can you make a 6-year-old walk 3-miles a day, do you even walk 3-miles a day," asked another.
The board is expected to make a decision on May 11.
