A major change is now in place outside P.S. 24 in Riverdale, with a goal of making it safer for students during arrival and dismissal.

Barricades are now blocking traffic on West 236th Street near Hudson Manor Terrace during certain school hours as part of the city's Open Streets program.

School staff told News 12 the street is closed from 7:30 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. for morning drop-off and again from 2 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. for dismissal.

The initiative is a collaboration between the school, Open Plans, the Department of Transportation and other community partners. Officials say the goal is to improve safety after concerns about reckless driving in front of the school.

Some parents told News 12 they support the change and believe it makes the area safer for children. Others say the street closure creates inconvenience during pickup and drop-off times.

Despite mixed reactions from parents, the plan is expected to remain in place moving forward as the community adjusts to the new traffic pattern.