Johnson High School Install Safety Beacons in District 9

Published on April 20, 2023

Council District 9 and Bexar County Partner to Install Safety Beacons at Johnson High School 

SAN ANTONIO (April 20, 2023) — The District 9 Office has secured $90,000 for the installation of overhead flashing beacons near Lady Bird Johnson High School campus. These safety beacons will help reduce speeding and create more awareness for the safety of students at Johnson High School. NEISD Board of Trustees President Shannon Grona and Johnson High School Principal Gary Comalander were in attendance at City Council to applaud the Interlocal Agreement. 

Currently there are static signs for the school zone and no flashing beacons. As a result, many drivers are unaware of the lower school speed limit and often speed while students walk and drive to the school. This interlocal agreement is the latest example of the City and Bexar County collaborating to improve the quality of life for residents in the area. This stretch of roadway is located outside of the City Limits and within the jurisdiction of Bexar County.  Bexar County Public Works will install the beacons funded by the City of San Antonio, maintain, and operate the signals. 
 
“These beacons will indisputably make our students, teachers, and drivers safer,” said District 9 Councilman John Courage. “Thank you to the City of San Antonio, Bexar County, Johnson High School, and Melinda Cox with the JHS Safe Driving Club for their tireless efforts calling for these improvements. Regardless of boundary lines or jurisdiction, this project shows that safety is our number one priority.”
 
Johnson High School PTSA Safe Driving Club Founder Melinda Cox added “In 2022, Bexar County led the state in distracted driving related fatalities. My students work year-round, and they are empowered advocates for themselves, friends and families. The installation of these school zone beacons will not only slow down traffic but also give us a chance at a new educational piece regarding driving, safety and speed. We have been working with District 9 for years and we appreciate the continued support.”