Driving in Austin and Mower County can pose challenges throughout the year. We have construction in the summer, snow in the winter and wildlife in our rural areas.

Mix in one- way streets, a jail and justice center project and the fire site cleanup downtown, and there are plenty of distractions for motorists.

It won’t get any easier this week.

Another school year begins countywide, meaning youngsters and teens will be walking or hurrying to class around our city streets and county roads.

Driving safely is a no brainer anytime of the year, but it’s especially important during the school year, which believe it or not begins today.