Signs Installed to Encourage a Reduction in Idling
May 30, 2012
The first of the Village’s "Idle Free Zone" signs was installed at Westgate Elementary School, 500 S. Dwyer, on May 30th. The signs, which will be placed throughout the Village, are part of the Idle Free Arlington educational and awareness campaign that was approved by the Village Board in February.
The signs at the school serve as a positive encouragement to parents to reduce idling when waiting to drop-off or pick-up their kids. They will be installed at all nine schools in District 25 over the coming weeks.
The Idle Free Arlington program has also been embraced by District 214, the Arlington Heights’ Park District, the Arlington Heights Memorial Library, District 23, and Poe Elementary School in District 21. The collaborative efforts between the Village and other governmental groups results in educational “Idle Free” signs being installed in locations where the greatest idling activity occurs.
The Village believes that by inviting groups and individuals to participate in the practice of idling less, our community will reap benefits. Sarah Jerome, District 25 Superintendent, says “AHSD 25 is delighted to partner with the Village in helping create a cleaner environment for our students to breathe easier. We look forward to participating in this good work together.”
“ We are excited about our partnership with the schools and other governmental agencies regarding the Idle Free initiative,” said Arlene J. Mulder, Mayor. “Through partnerships we are able to work together in motivating drivers in our community to idle less. Having the first Idle Free Zone signs installed at a school is a perfect kick-off to a program that will benefit us all. Children are great motivators and we hope they will help spread the message of the benefits of idling less.”
Idle Free Zone sign locations are also being mapped out on Village-owned property throughout the community, such as Village Hall, Public Works and the Metra Stations. In addition, the Village is developing guidelines for its employees to encourage reducing idling when using Village vehicles throughout the work day.
The Idle Free campaign will also be featured on the 2013 Village vehicle stickers as part of the Village's outreach to invite others to consider the benefits of idle reduction.
Other events and awareness opportunities are being planned for the upcoming months to reach as many residents as possible to inform them of the positive effects of reduced idling, and to invite them to participate in the Idle Free Arlington campaign.
Here are some opportunities to reduce idling:
- While picking up kids from school or extra-curricular activities
- While picking up passengers at the train station
- While waiting for a train at a crossing
- While waiting at the bank, pharmacy or fast-food drive-thrus