Several South Florida cities are implementing speed cameras in school zones to enhance student safety by addressing speeding concerns.
The implementation of speed cameras in school zones across South Florida aims to tackle the persistent issue of speeding, particularly when students are at risk. These cameras operate exclusively on school days, beginning half an hour before classes start and continuing until half an hour after they end. This initiative comes after Pinecrest and South Miami successfully employed a new state law allowing automated speed detection in designated areas. As a result, significant numbers of citations have been issued—over 7,400 in South Miami and approximately 5,800 in Pinecrest. While it’s too early to evaluate the full impact of these systems, authorities, like Pinecrest Police Chief Jason Cohen, are hopeful that they will encourage drivers to slow down around schools.
Increased awareness of speeding in school zones is a welcome change for many, including long-time Palmetto Senior High School security monitor Diane Gilmore, who regularly witnesses speeding violations during school hours. Gilmore believes the camera installations are a prudent move, noting that reckless driving poses a serious threat to students crossing streets. Similarly, students like Nicholas Henriquez, a senior driver, acknowledge the positive influence of speed cameras in controlling driver behavior near schools.
However, opinions on the effectiveness of these cameras vary. Some individuals, such as Christian Gutierrez, who frequently picks up students, argue that more conventional measures like speed bumps might be more effective at curbing speeding. Despite these differing perspectives, it is important to note that each citation generates $39 for the respective police departments, with funds earmarked for further public safety initiatives. Chief Cohen emphasizes that anything contributing to the safety of children and city environments is deemed beneficial.
Looking ahead, other South Florida municipalities, including Miami Gardens, West Miami, Davie, and Plantation, are set to launch their own school zone camera systems. Miami-Dade Police have already started installing cameras near eleven schools, indicating a growing trend toward automated enforcement in the region. Cohen predicts that more police departments in the area will adopt this technology to promote safer driving conditions.
The introduction of speed cameras in South Florida school zones is part of a broader effort to improve public safety and reduce speeding incidents near educational institutions. While opinions on their effectiveness differ, the drive to safeguard students remains a priority for local authorities.
Source: Nbcmiami
