FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 1, 2026

City of Charlottesville Deploys Safety Plan to Support School Reopening Following Winter Weather

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA –  As Charlottesville City Schools reopen following recent winter weather, the City of Charlottesville is implementing a coordinated safety plan to support students, families, and school transportation amid continued hazardous conditions.

To ensure student safety during morning bus pickups and pedestrian travel, the City Manager has directed both the Charlottesville Police Department and Charlottesville Fire Department to deploy uniformed personnel and vehicles across the city beginning tomorrow morning. Officers and firefighters will be positioned near school bus stops, sidewalks, and key travel routes to monitor conditions, assist students where needed, and provide visible safety support.

“This is about making sure our kids get to school safely,” said City Manager Sam Sanders. “We know winter conditions remain a concern, and rather than lose another instructional day, we’re using every resource available to support families and give parents peace of mind.”

The City’s Public Works department has also secured a contractor to work alongside City crews beginning tomorrow to clear school bus stops and sidewalks. Charlottesville City Schools identified 38 bus stops as urgent priorities. Ten were deemed safe by Pupil Transportation staff, and the remaining 28 will be addressed during the day tomorrow.

In coordination with Schools Superintendent Royal Gurley, the City developed a safety plan that includes police and fire personnel monitoring areas where students may need to walk in the roadway to reach bus stops due to lingering winter conditions.

“We want families to understand that the increased presence of police and fire vehicles they may see is intentional and focused solely on student safety,” Sanders added. “This is not an emergency response; it’s a proactive measure to protect our children and keep schools open.”

City officials note that winter conditions are expected to persist for at least another week, and limited safety support may be needed again early next week if conditions warrant. The City will continue to assess conditions daily and communicate updates as needed.

For updates on winter operations and school-related safety measures, residents are encouraged to follow official City communication channels.

Media Contact:
Afton Schneider
Director of Communications & Public Engagement
City of Charlottesville
434-996-0331
media@charlottesville.gov