Back-to-school season in Anna is bringing more than early mornings, packed lunches and busy classrooms — it’s also creating a traffic headache for many residents, with school drop-offs and pick-ups causing congestion on streets near local schools.
Parents and guardians in the Anna Town Square subdivision are facing congestion near Harlow Elementary and Clemons Creek Middle School, prompting city officials to step in with traffic guidance.
“We have received a few calls from neighbors that have not been enjoying the traffic,” the police department said in a statement on social media.
Alternative Routes
The Anna Police Department issued a traffic advisory encouraging drivers to take alternate routes to ease gridlock.
Parents and guardians dropping off or picking up students are being asked to use Leonard Avenue when approaching the schools, keeping to the right lane so slower school traffic does not delay other neighbors. Officials also advise against using Sharp Street due to ongoing construction, which creates a traffic hazard.
When leaving Harlow Elementary or Clemons Creek Middle School, drivers are encouraged to turn right to access Powell Parkway and the Outer Loop. Turning left onto Sharp Street is discouraged because of safety concerns. Alternatively, drivers can follow Leonard Avenue to Finley Boulevard to exit the area safely.
Safety Reminders For Golf Carts
The advisory isn’t just about cars. The city reminded residents that golf carts must either be permitted through Anna or meet street-legal requirements, including a state-issued license plate, to operate on local roads.
Rapid Growth Adds Pressure
The traffic challenges highlight the city’s rapid growth. According to data from World Population Review, Anna’s population reached 34,255 in 2025, nearly doubling since the 2020 census. The city is growing at an annual rate of 10.94%, a pace that is reflected in increasing congestion and demand on local infrastructure.
Planning Ahead
For now, city officials are asking parents and guardians to plan ahead, follow suggested routes and drive safely, as Anna navigates the challenges of Collin County’s expanding population and the start of another school year.
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