Community Education

Parking in fire lanes a growing safety concern, Peninsula school officials say 

Parking in fire lanes at Peninsula schools is nothing new, but it’s risen to a level of concern that calls for a “communication campaign” to families and the public. The announcement came from Peninsula School District’s lead safety official at the Jan. 7 school board meeting.

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“We’ve been having a lot of issues at bigger events, mostly on nights and weekends where we are seeing the public completely filling our fire lanes,” said Kris Hagel, chief of information for the district, who also oversees safety, security and technology. “We do understand that there are parking challenges in some of our schools, but we do also need to make sure that we keep the fire lanes open.”

Hagel mentioned Peninsula High School as one facility where parking is especially challenging.

The problem isn’t confined to large events at Peninsula and Gig Harbor high schools. Parents occupy fire lanes during drop-off and pick-up at some elementary and middle schools, according to Communications Coordinator Danielle Chastaine. That’s especially so at older schools that, unlike those more recently constructed, lack updated traffic flow designs.

“We will be starting a communication campaign with the community to let them know, hey, you know, it’s really important. And by the way, here are some additional parking options,” Hagel said.

Hagel said the district will issue reminders via ParentSquare, social media and sandwich board signs to keep fire lanes clear. The district will install temporary barriers such as traffic cones and will bring on personnel to direct traffic at peak times. During events, the public will be directed to alternate parking.