Cedar Park City Council Enhances Pedestrian Safety

Newly installed high visibility crosswalks in Cedar Park, aimed at improving pedestrian safety after a recent incident.

News Summary

In response to a troubling pedestrian incident, the Cedar Park City Council has approved the installation of high visibility crosswalks throughout the city. This decision follows a school bus collision that left a pre-K teacher with serious injuries, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced safety measures. The council aims to create a safer environment for both pedestrians and drivers, while community support for the injured teacher continues to grow, reflecting Cedar Park’s commitment to safety and solidarity.

Cedar Park City Council Takes Action for Pedestrian Safety

In a proactive move to enhance pedestrian safety, the Cedar Park City Council has officially approved the installation of new high visibility crosswalks throughout the city. This decision, made on February 14, 2025, comes in the wake of a concerning incident involving a school bus and a pedestrian, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures in the area.

A Shocking Incident

The catalyst for this action was a troubling collision that occurred on December 9, 2024, near the intersection of East Whitestone Boulevard and Discovery Boulevard around 6:35 a.m. In low visibility conditions caused by darkness and rain, a school bus driver struck Lizbeth Martel, a dedicated pre-K teacher at Jupiter House Preschool. The unfortunate event left Martel with significant leg injuries, a situation that has resonated deeply with the community.

Police investigations into the incident revealed that the bus driver failed to yield the right of way to the pedestrian. The investigation suggested that the driver’s ability to see Martel was severely hampered by the poor weather conditions, leading to this devastating accident.

A Teacher’s Legacy

Martel is not just any teacher; she brings over 30 years of valuable experience in education and has been with Jupiter House Preschool for four years. Known for her commitment, it was a typical day as she walked to work when the incident occurred. Her director, Brittany Duke, expressed that the overwhelming shock of the situation has affected everyone, especially since Martel had a daily routine of walking to work.

Community Support on the Rise

In the aftermath of this collision, community members have rallied to support Martel, a woman originally from Venezuela, who is currently on a work visa. The circumstances of the incident have not only impacted her health but have also threatened her ability to support her family back home, as she sends most of her earnings to them. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist with her medical expenses and aims to raise approximately $7,000. To date, the campaign has successfully collected over $2,000 in donations, reflecting the community’s compassion and willingness to help.

Immediate Changes on the Horizon

In light of this incident and the pressing need for pedestrian safety, the Cedar Park City Council has acted swiftly. The recent approval of high visibility crosswalks aims to prevent similar incidents in the future. This move is part of a broader commitment to ensuring the safety of both pedestrians and drivers in the community. The installation of these crosswalks is expected to enhance visibility for both commuters and pedestrians, creating a safer environment for everyone.

School District Response

Following the collision, the involved bus driver was placed on administrative leave and has since resigned from the Leander Independent School District. The district has emphasized its dedication to school safety and has willingly cooperated with the police throughout the investigation process.

A Part of the Community

As Cedar Park moves forward, it is clear that the community remains steadfast in its commitment to support one another. The council’s decision is a crucial step towards ensuring safety, but it’s the warmth of neighbors and friends gathering to support those in need that truly embodies the spirit of Cedar Park. Changes are coming, and with strong support for individuals like Lizbeth Martel, the community is proving that unity can lead to impactful change.