Del City Looks to Improve Safety At School Crosswalk

By Emily Wood, NEWS 9

DEL CITY, Oklahoma – Del City officials are looking for ways to make a school crosswalk safer after speeding motorists injured students.

At least eight students have been injured in the past two years while trying to cross Sunnylane Road on their way to Del City High School.

City officials said they hope they can get drivers to slowdown by installing flashing lights in the road.

The system would allow students to activate flashing lights embedded in the roadway to alert drivers they are entering the street. Similar crosswalks have already been installed in Edmond.

City officials have applied for a federal grant to pay for the $120,000 system.

"We really need that grant to go through," City Manager Mark Edwards said.

Students said getting to school can be dangerous.

"Traffic will barely pay attention, and you have to be on guard all the time," said Deven McCaslin, Del City High School student.

City leaders have increased police patrols in the area and warned students to be careful. McCaslin said he hopes the city can install the system, but the in the meantime wants drivers to slow down.

"If you see somebody on the side of the road, stop and wait for them," Deven McCaslin said. "We only take about five seconds."

City officials said it's likely the grant will be approved. They will be notified next month.