Recognizing the need for change, Del Campo students formed the Crash Analysis Research Studio (C.A.R.S.), a club dedicated to improving roadway safety through data collection and community engagement. Designed by Freepik, www.freepik.com

 

FAIR OAKS, CA (MPG) - Students at Del Campo High School are taking an active role in addressing traffic safety concerns on Dewey Drive, a busy corridor shared with Will Rogers Middle School. The stretch of road experiences heavy congestion during morning drop-offs and afternoon pick-ups, creating a daily challenge for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians alike.

In addition to the high volume of school-related traffic, many residents and students have observed that Dewey Drive is unusually wide for its 35-miles-per-hour speed limit. This combination of width and visibility often encourages drivers to exceed the posted speed, raising concerns about the safety of students who walk or bike to school.

Recognizing the need for change, Del Campo students formed the Crash Analysis Research Studio (C.A.R.S.), a club dedicated to improving roadway safety through data collection and community engagement. The group’s mission is to involve both students and staff in developing practical solutions that benefit the local community.

As part of their work, members of C.A.R.S. regularly gather traffic data along Dewey Drive. Their studies have revealed that during one observation period between 10 and 11 a.m., the 85th percentile speed (the speed that 85 percent of cars are above or below) was 42 miles per hour. Out of 176 vehicles recorded, 102 were exceeding the speed limit.

Such findings highlight the dangers posed to pedestrians and cyclists, especially given the narrow sidewalks and bike lanes that many use. Students have noted that vehicles often encroach on these bike lanes, leaving little room for safe travel.

To address these issues, C.A.R.S has developed what they call the “10-10-10 Proposal.” The plan recommends narrowing the roadway by 10 feet to naturally slow traffic, reducing the posted speed limit by 10 miles per hour to a consistent 25 miles throughout the entire stretch, and aiming to lower the city’s long-term maintenance costs by 10 percent. The proposal also includes the addition of protected bike lanes, ensuring that students and other cyclists have a safe and clearly designated space to ride.

In an effort to bring their proposal to the attention of local decision-makers, C.A.R.S. members have begun a petition, inviting anyone who regularly uses Dewey Drive to share their support. C.A.R.S has also begun reaching out to residents along Dewey Drive, as well as staff and students at neighboring schools to build a large base of community backing.

The initiative has already gained recognition at the local level. Representatives from C.A.R.S. have met with officials from the Sacramento County Department of Transportation to present their findings and discuss potential collaboration. Their efforts have also earned the attention of Charles Marhon, a nationally-recognized civil engineer and the author of “Confessions of a Recovering Civil Engineer.” Marohn, who is best known as the founder of the advocacy organization Strong Towns, has expressed support for Del Campo’s efforts. Strong Towns focuses on promoting safe, financially sustainable community design, which values align closely with the goals of C.A.R.S.

By combining research, civic engagement and collaboration with local experts, Del Campo students are demonstrating how youth-led initiatives can make a tangible difference in community planning. Their work serves as an example of how data-driven advocacy can inspire local governments to reconsider how neighborhood streets are designed and maintained.

The students hope that their 10-10-10 proposal will lead to meaningful change, not only improving safety on Dewey Drive but also encouraging other schools and neighborhoods to take a proactive approach to street design. Through their dedication and teamwork, Del Campo’s C.A.R.S. club is proving that safer streets begin with informed and motivated citizens. To help C.A.R.S with this goal, you can sign their petition at sites.google.com/sanjuan.edu/dctea.

Cheyenne Tref is a Del Campo High School senior and the school’s Crash Analysis Research Studio (C.A.R.S.) vice president.