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Qualicum Beach looks to make safety improvements near elementary school

One councillor says there have been issues with traffic and safety of the children during outdoor activities

There is progress on traffic safety concerns around the new Qualicum Beach Elementary School, town council heard Monday.

"Since moving the Qualicum Beach Elementary School out to the old middle school site, there have been issues with traffic and safety of the children during outdoor activities," said Coun. Anne Skipsey after "a well-attended site meeting."

Chief Administrative officer Daniel Sailland reported, "We're proud to have finally installed the barriers along Laburnum, addressing some of the safety concerns there for pedestrians and cyclists around the school."

Mayor Teunis Westbroek said the meeting was attended by the RCMP and school and parent representatives and that the town's traffic consultant is coming next week to consult on the situation. There have been calls from parents to address the issue since before the old downtown elementary school was closed in August 2014, moving much younger children into the newer school on Laburnum Road. A paved bike and pedestrian path, separated from Laburnum Road, ends near the school and becomes a wide shoulder.

"There have been three incidents at the Laburnum crosswalk at Claymore," Skipsey said, adding that "a sign warning drivers of the crosswalk would be a good start."

No specific action was directed by council, but more information will be coming.