TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A Hillsborough County parent is calling on the school district to make changes to their student’s bus stop location.
The intersection at West Fletcher Avenue and Lake George Lane in Tampa experiences high traffic. Jehovany Diaz shared a video with 8 On Your Side, capturing vehicles moving past the spot where his son is dropped off.
“I can’t comprehend how placing an 11-year-old child just two feet from this major road can be considered safe while waiting for a bus in the morning,” Diaz expressed.
Even though his son Max is not crossing the busy five-lane road, Diaz worries about his son being picked up and dropped off there.
A woman who has lived at this cross street for more than 50 years said she understands his concerns.
“I think it was better when they turned the corner and parked in front of my house because they were off a busy road,” said Patricia Hauenstein.
Diaz requested that Hillsborough consider changing the bus stop location. The district replied that the stop aligns with state safety standards. Diaz took 8 On Your Side to Lake George Lane and North Armenia Avenue, where he prefers the bus stop be relocated.
“I don’t think it’s unreasonable to move it one block away from the major highway. Just the sound here. You can hear the difference,” Diaz said.
Max told us he wouldn’t mind that spot either.
“I’d rather be safer than sorry. I would rather not have a car hit me,” Max said.
Hillsborough County Schools mentioned that parents have alternatives to consider. The district informed Diaz on Thursday that his son could use another bus stop on Fletcher Ave, where the speed limit is 45 mph, and there isn’t a blind spot like in their current situation.
“This seems less risky than the current location, yet still poses some risk because it’s a significant highway,” Diaz remarked. “If they don’t relocate the bus stop, this at least appears safer.”
The district highlighted that they transport numerous students by bus daily and noted that the transportation department often reviews bus stops.
