Gotsch Buses Not Routed Through Richford Gardens

Affton Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steve Brotherton was concerned about the mix of buses, cars and students at the beginning and end of the day at Gotsch Intermediate.

As a step to increase student safety, Brotherton proposed routing 11 school buses twice a day through the Richford Gardens subdivision, which has a gated back entrance to the school. The neighbors didn't want the buses.

On Thursday Brotherton decided to route the buses differently through the school grounds, and not through the subdivision. He wrote a letter to the neighbors in Richford Gardens, which is below. The new route is on the Affton website.

Dear Richford Gardens Resident,

Following the informational meeting held at Gotsch Intermediate last Wednesday, July 31, we have been further reviewing the proposed bus route changes. We appreciate the constructive input received that evening, and are pursuing some of the suggestions made.

We will not be implementing the bus route changes as previously communicated at this time.  While the most efficient means of separating car and bus traffic completely at Gotsch Intermediate is to utilize both existing entrances, we will instead be taking further measures to ensure student safety within the boundaries of the parking lot. All buses and vehicles will continue to enter and exit via the Laclede Station Road entrance, and new traffic patterns will be established.

We have been in contact with Councilman Pat Dolan’s office, as well as the St. Louis County Department of Highways & Traffic, in an effort to determine a better solution. They have reviewed the new plan and are offering their continued support to ensure proper traffic flow at the Laclede Station entrance.

Working together, we will be able to provide a more safe and secure solution for our Gotsch Intermediate School families and our community.

Sincerely, Dr. Steve Brotherton, Superintendent