Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk CSD joins Albany County bus safety program

RAVENA, N.Y. (NEWS10) — The Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School District is rolling out new technology to keep students safe on bus routes. The district joined Albany County’s school bus safety program on Friday.

Buses in the district will now be equipped with high tech cameras that can automatically detect and record drivers who illegally pass a stopped bus. The cameras went live on September 4. Those found illegally passing stopped school buses will get a warning notice in the mail up until October 5. Afterwards, the minimum penalty will be $250.

School officials said the initiative aims to hold reckless drivers accountable.

“This technology allows our drivers to focus entirely on what matters most — safely transporting students — while the system works to deter dangerous driving behaviors,” Superintendent Craig Chandler said. “In today’s age of distraction, too many drivers ignore the flashing yellow and red lights, and this partnership gives us the tools to protect our most precious cargo and make our roads safer for everyone.”

According to county data, since Albany County started the bus safety program, the county has issued more than 33,000 citations.