Camden, SC – July 10, 2025 – As traffic safety concerns grow near schools across the city, Camden officials are facing renewed pressure to reinstate school crossing guards. After reallocating the original crossing guard budget to other municipal programs several years ago, the city should be exploring cost-neutral solutions to bring these vital positions back, especially with local advocate Kimberly Manley championing the cause.
Crossing Guard Cuts Spark Concern
Previously funded through the city’s general operations, Camden’s crossing guard program was quietly dissolved when funds were shifted to other public service initiatives. But the absence has been felt, particularly around Camden Elementary and middle school campuses, where increased traffic and speeding drivers pose daily dangers to children.
Local safety advocate Kimberly Manley, a longtime resident and parent, has been vocal in urging city leaders to act.
“It’s not about politics—it’s about protecting our kids,” Manley said. “We don’t need a massive budget. We need community will, and a plan.”
Camden’s Cost-Conscious Path Forward
The Council should recognize that restoring a full-time guard program might be financially feasible in the current budget cycle. City officials and community leaders should weigh several low- to no-cost strategies:
1. Volunteer Safety Corps
Modeled after successful programs in other parts of the country, Camden could establish a volunteer crossing guard team, made up of parents, senior citizens, and vetted community members. With basic training and supervision, they could cover peak school hours without drawing on the city’s payroll.
2. Police–Community Partnerships
Interim coverage could be provided by off-duty police officers, school resource officers, or even community service personnel. In other South Carolina municipalities, limited-duty traffic assignments have been coordinated between schools and law enforcement with minimal overhead.
3. Community and Grant Funding
Grants through organizations like South Carolina Safe Routes to School could fund high-visibility vests, stop signs, whistles, and training materials. These tools would equip volunteers and reduce legal liability for the city.
4. Traffic Calming Enhancements
Supplemental safety could come through low-cost traffic calming: radar signs, painted crosswalks, temporary barriers, and flashing lights during school hours—all of which reduce risk even in the absence of a human guard.
Safety Over Savings
Camden’s earlier decision to reallocate the original crossing guard budget was intended to support broader public works projects. However, many residents now feel this tradeoff may have sacrificed children’s safety for short-term savings.
“We all appreciate progress,” Manley added, “but there’s nothing more progressive than keeping a child from getting hit by a car.”
The city has already posted new 25 mph signs near Camden schools, but residents report frequent speeding and limited enforcement. With the school year fast approaching, pressure is mounting to have some form of school zone supervision in place.
For residents like Kimberly Manley, that would be a win not just for safety, but for common sense.
“We’re not asking for miracles. We’re asking for a vest, a whistle, and someone to help our kids cross the road.”