Letter to the Editor: Concerns Regarding Merrick School Crossings

Dear Editor,

The NCMCA is scheduling a meeting with the Nassau County Police and School Officials to address the problems we have with school crossings on Merrick Avenue.  

It is evident with respect to the accident that occurred at the intersection of Old Mill Road and Merrick Avenue in Merrick, that our children and the crossing guards assigned to protect them, are being placed in a dangerous situation, putting their lives and the lives of our children at risk.  

North Merrick resident William Pezzulo and other residents are strongly urging the Nassau County Police Department to address this issue. The NCMCA is joining Mr. Pezzulo in requesting increased police presence at intersections and/or crosswalks at the times when our children go to and return from school. It is our belief that the police tours of duty could be modified to include increase police surveillance at these dangerous crossings.

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We believe it imperative that the police, school superintendents, principals, PTAs and concerned citizens meet to discuss this problem and develop a strategic plan to protect the safety of our children and the crossing guards.  

Perhaps the Auxiliary Police Units could be asked to patrol those areas. Other solutions that could be explored are hand-held stop signs that could be held high and seen by motorists from a distance and other such warnings that alert motorists that crossing guards are directing traffic. Perhaps, bus stops could be rerouted so as not to block the vision of motorists. Street signs, lights and other devices need to be installed as well.

It is our view that this needs to be a coordinated effort among the Nassau County Police, our Superintendents of Schools, our Nassau County Legislators, Town councilpersons and concerned residents.

Claudia Borecky, President of the North and Central Merrick Civic Associations.

What do you think about the concerns regarding school crossings in Merrick? Tell us in the comments below.