For the 5th consecutive year, the Dubuque Police Department conducted a “back to school” project to enhance safety in school zones within the city.
In addition to increased safety, the project also promoted communication between law enforcement, school officials, parents and students, often leading to the immediate handling of questions, concerns and problems. High visibility police presence was provided during both arrival and dismissal times. Officers also conducted enforcement of traffic violations (especially those that jeopardize the safety of the students).
To facilitate this project, patrol officers on two of the five patrol shifts adjusted their work schedules to insure police coverage during school arrival and dismissal times. Sixty-six hours of overtime was funded by a 410 Grant through the Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau. This effort and funding resulted in at least 184 school patrols during the first week of school alone. The Dubuque Police Department would also like to thank LAMAR Advertising for posting “back to school” safety reminders on their electronic billboards throughout the city.
Officers will continue to provide extra presence at area schools as needed and as calls for service permit. Motorists are also reminded that school bus violations are enforced throughout the school year with the assistance of the bus drivers. Unlawfully passing a school bus not only greatly increases the danger to our students, but also carries a total fine of $330.