Schools

Back to School: D303 Says Don't Drive, Use the Bus

Noting Route 64 construction in particular, the St. Charles school district urges parents to have their kids use school buses when available.

If you add the ongoing construction on East Main Street/Route 64 to the traffic that will increase in and out of schools this week, you know the morning rush to get your kids to class on time could be mired by congestions. The same thing is likely in the afternoon.


That’s one reason St. Charles Community Unit School District 303 is urging parents to let your children use the bus when possible.


Granted, this is the last year of scheduled construction of the East Main Street/Route 64 Reconstruction Project, but it still be be a bit before the project wraps up for the season. The work on the west end of the project — from 7th Avenue to just east of Kirk Road — is expected to be substantially complete by Aug. 30, while Oct. 1 is the expected substantial completion date for the eastern end — from 38th Avenue to Route 59.

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School District 303 said on its website that the increased traffic from construction and the return to school will slow down arrival and pickup times especially for those using Route 64 to get to and from St. Charles East High School and Wredling Middle School.


“We ask for your patience and we’re also asking for your help,” the district said on its website. “If possible, please do not drive your student to school unless it is absolutely necessary. Our transportation department takes pride in their record of safety and service, and if riding the school bus is an option for your student, we encourage you to have them do so.”

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New Traffic Light on Red Gate Road


At St. Charles North High School, there is a new stoplight on Red Gate Road and the entrance to the school’s parking lot, as well as a new right-turn lane heading into the lot from the west. The timing for the traffic light has been set, but the school district noted that the city will adjust that timing if necessary, depending on traffic volume.


According to the district, the best way to address traffic around the schools is to make sure you give yourself extra time to make the trip. Also, the district says, slow down and be patient.


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