CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Several parents remain concerned about the safety of their kids at a bus stop in south Charlotte after repeated pleas to CMS to make a change.
They’re outraged after several drivers were caught on video breaking the law by speeding right past their kids' stopped bus.
It’s been a recurring problem on Ardrey Kell Road, and it happened again Tuesday morning as three cars hurried past as the bus came to a stop.
Parents told NBC Charlotte a CMPD officer was waiting at the light across the street and watched it happened.
The parents have filed several requests to move the bus stop, claiming their kids aren't safe, but each request has been denied.
CMS insisted the kids are safe getting on the bus at that corner. The moms have now started a petition that in one day has gotten more than 100 signatures.
They're hoping other parents will see how dangerous the corner is, especially with the videos they have of cars blowing past the stopped bus.
“Why would you take no for an answer when your kid's life is in danger,” said Shelby Gann.
The parents said they've caught several cars breaking the law. One video showed a truck speeding around the bus as its yellow lights flashed, then passing the bus once the lights switched to red.
After their requests were denied by CMS, Gann and her neighbor, Leigh Ann Ordan, started an online petition, begging other parents to help.
"The responses I'm getting are, 'We're struggling, too. I can't believe you have to have a petition to have this moved.' They’re frustrated for us,” said Ordan.
The district maintained because kids get on the bus on the right side, it’s safe. Plus, the entrance to the neighborhood doesn't have enough space for the bus.
CMPD stepped up patrols in the area after NBC Charlotte first showed the videos, and officers said it's helped.
But in a video from Tuesday morning, an officer watched as cars passed the bus. CMPD said because the lights weren't red yet, they couldn't pull the driver over.
The moms are trying to make enough noise in the community to make a change happen.
“We’re here to work with CMS, not work against them. We’re all on the same team. It’s not their fault these cars are passing the school bus, but it is their obligation to keep our children safe,” said Gann.
CMPD urged drivers to not just look at the stoplights but all of their surroundings so students stay safe.