Drivers speed past Gerena School zone

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Many parents are concerned that one local school zone is more like a speedway.

There is an effort underway to make the Gerena Magnet School in Springfield safer for their students on their way to and from class.

Roger Goodhine is trying to prevent a tragedy. He's written a letter to state and local police as well as the school appealing for tighter traffic regulations on Birnie Avenue.

One sign clearly displays the 20 mile per hour school zone. But rarely does anyone obey the rule – with cars coming off the highway, barely slow down.

Bus driver Darlene Rivera told 22News she is nervous that one day her bus could get hit, injuring the kids inside.

The back parking lot is the designated pick up and drop off area, but soon it will be closed for a construction project.

The principal is trying to work out a contingency plan. As it is, too many young students are illegally dropped off on the side of the school, despite no parking signs, putting them close to the school zone speedway.

Police Sgt. John Delaney told 22News traffic officers typically patrol the area.

But Goodhine and other parents agree that not enough is being done for the safety of the students.