The Elevated Edit – August 2026
Dear Reader,
It’s that time of the year, back to school. And we must talk… You may not live on Castle Pines Parkway, but there is a very serious matter we need to discuss. The construction crews are still finishing work in front of Timber Trail Elementary and the kids are getting ready to return to school. It’s important that drivers pay special attention, and I have noticed there are many who do not.
That 20 mph speed limit is not a suggestion. A few extra minutes is a very small price to pay for everyone’s safety. Put your phones down and keep your eyes up. Give the crossing guards and construction flaggers your full attention; these folks are managing two hazards at the same time. And finally, patience is contagious. Honking and tailgating is the wrong kind of behavior to model for the kids we are trying to protect.
The construction will not last forever, but the habit of driving carefully through a school zone should.
Also, it is always good to review important reminders from Douglas County:
- School Bus Laws: Under Colorado law, you must stop at least 20 feet away from a school bus when its red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended. This applies to traffic in both directions on undivided highways. Painted lines do not qualify as dividers; only a physical median separating traffic counts as a divided highway.
- School Zones: Douglas County maintains and actively monitors flashing school zone speed limit signs. Expect to see a heavy presence from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office ensuring drivers maintain 20 mph limits when lights are active, as speeding in these zones can result in doubled fines.
- Distracted Driving: It is illegal in Colorado to hold or use a mobile device while driving. A brief glance away from the road can have fatal consequences in areas populated by distracted or unpredictable children.
- Pedestrian Awareness: Allow yourself extra time in the morning and afternoon. Watch out for students walking, biking or skating, particularly near neighborhood crosswalks, intersections and school drop-off zones.
Please treat all school zones with the highest care on your commute, and we can get this school year off to a safe start for everyone.
Big Love,
Mrs. A.
