Ft Worth Times

The role of crossing guards goes beyond mere traffic management. They are also responsible for keeping countless pedestrians, particularly school children safe. Yet, despite the critical nature of their duties, their pay has not always reflected the significance of their responsibilities.

In the fall of 2023, the City conducted a comprehensive review of all crossing guard wages across various Texas municipalities. The findings revealed that Fort Worth's crossing guard wage was below the average for such positions across Texas. To address this, the Mayor and City Council have recommended a pay increase from $12.00/hr. to $13.50/hr.

During last night’s city council meeting, the Mayor and Council approved a pay increase for all crossing guards.

Why it matters: This adjustment represents the maximum increase that the City can currently approve within the existing crossing guard vendor contract. It is a significant step towards ensuring that crossing guards are compensated competitively for their vital contributions to Fort Worth’s public safety.

Crossing guards have not received an annual pay increases since August 2022. The newly approved $13.50/hr wage aims to catch up with the industry average. This wage increase also reflects the City's commitment to recognizing the importance of the work performed by employees.

Go deeper: In addition to the approved wage increase, the Crime Control Prevention District Board of Directors has taken further steps to enhance crossing guard compensation. The Transportation & Public Works department has been tasked with exploring avenues to increase wages beyond the recommended $13.50/hr. The earliest opportunity for this will be during the search for a new vendor services contract in the spring of 2024.

Original source can be found here.