Bus riders get new backpack lights

AUSTIN (KXAN) - When Theresia Intag walks her two children down Westhaven Drive to the bus stop in the morning, the route is getting more difficult to see.

"It's not pitch black, but the sun is just barely coming up," said Intag.

She was thrilled to receive an email Tuesday announcing a new program at Eanes Independent School District to distribute safety lights to every elementary student who rides a bus.

"These are all divided up for the elementary routes," said Eanes ISD Transportation Specialist Bill Graham, pointing to a table full of grocery sacks packed with the small red blinking lights.

"This is an idea that we came up with to make the students more visible," said Graham.

Parents will be encouraged to clip the lights to their child's backpack in the mornings and turn the light on before they head to the bus stop.

Intag's second grade daughter, Skylar, is excited to clip the new light next to her collection of keychains.

"I think they're really cool because then cars can see that little light and they're like 'oh someone might be there' and they'll watch out for you," said Skylar.

She is one of the 1700 students getting one. Some routes run as early as 6:45 to pick up students.

"We hope it's something that will spread because I think it's gonna be a good way to help the safety issue that's important to every district," said Graham.

The district purchased the lights with grant money. They cost about $1 each. The district plans on selling the lights around town for students who need another one.