Oak Park police are increasing patrols at school-zone crossings and walking routes as the new academic year gets underway.

The Oak Park Police Department announced the enforcement push Friday, Aug. 28, on its official X account. Officers are stepping up their presence at key crossings and along routes students use to walk to neighborhood schools, the department said. The announcement came two days after Oak Park Elementary School District 97 students returned to class on Wednesday, Aug. 26.

OPD listed rules officers are enforcing. Drivers must come to a complete stop at intersections and cannot block crosswalks. Motorists must obey crossing-guard signals and cannot pass a stopped school bus with its lights flashing. The department also warned against distracted driving, singling out cell-phone use behind the wheel.