Drivers on Okeechobee Blvd. will soon need to keep a close eye on how fast they are driving in school zones now that the Town of Loxahatchee Groves has joined a growing list of communities across the state to approve the use of cameras to catch speeders near schools using a vendor called RedSpeed.
Read the full article at GoTownCrier
Summary: Lox Council Approves School Zone Enforcement Cameras
The Town of Loxahatchee Groves has taken a significant step to enhance school zone safety by approving the installation of speed enforcement cameras. This initiative, facilitated by the vendor RedSpeed, aims to deter speeding in designated school zones and is part of a broader trend among Florida communities.
Key Points
- Unanimous Approval: On December 3, the Loxahatchee Groves council unanimously passed an ordinance allowing a “School Zone Speed Enforcement Program” and approved a contract with RedSpeed.
- Targeted Areas: The cameras will be installed near Royal Palm Beach Elementary School and Loxahatchee Groves Elementary School, focusing on traffic along Okeechobee Blvd. and Folsom Road.
- Revenue Distribution: Mayor Anita Kane highlighted that the town retains $39 from each $100 citation issued, with the remainder allocated to various state and local funds.
- Legislative Backing: This move follows Florida’s HB 657, which permits speed detection systems in school zones, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures.
Notable Quotes & Data
David De La Espriella from RedSpeed stated, “The benefit of these cameras is that now the PBSO can utilize those officers who would be doing traffic enforcement… for something else.” The council’s decision reflects a growing concern for pedestrian safety, particularly for children in school zones.
Context & Implications
The approval of these cameras not only aims to improve safety but also to optimize law enforcement resources. As other municipalities, like Wellington, consider similar systems, Loxahatchee Groves is positioning itself as proactive in addressing traffic safety. This initiative represents a critical response to community concerns about speeding and safety near schools, potentially influencing future policy decisions statewide.