Comal Independent School District (Comal ISD) is set to open Comal Creek Elementary School on Hubertus Road in Schertz, Texas, in August 2023.  It is proposed that the current school zone on Hubertus Road established for the Danville Middle School be extended to include an appropriate length for the entrance to the Elementary School.  The resulting school zone on Hubertus Road will extend from the intersection at FM 482 south to approximately 500 feet from the intersection at the IH 35 frontage road (See Exhibit A).  Normal speed limit on Hubertus Road is 30 miles per hour and the school zone speed limit is proposed to be 20 miles per hour during times posted.  Staff will regularly coordinate with Comal ISD to ensure that the appropriate times are posted based on bell schedules.

A special called meeting of the Transportation Safety Advisory Commission (TSAC) was held on August 10, 2023, and a vote to recommend approval of the modified school zone to City Council was unanimous. Because of the life safety issues involved with school zones, particularly around elementary schools, staff is recommending this be considered and emergency and approved on one reading.  

The goal of this ordinance is to establish an appropriately located school zone to provide safe travel during peak times for buses and other vehicles entering and leaving the Comal ISD schools on Hubertus Road.

By working cooperatively with the Comal ISD, the City can promote and work to enforce safety regulations for the traveling public in the vicinity of schools.

It is recommended that Council approve Ordinance 23-D-20 amending Section 86-118 of the Code of Ordinances to establish a modified school zone on Hubertus Road.

Staff recommends approval of Ordinance 23-D-20.