PALM BAY, Fla. – After writing 112 tickets in school zones in the last two years, Palm Bay police are requesting that the city approve speeding cameras near 16 schools.
Alisa Nitzh’s daughter attends one of the schools on the list, Lockmar Elementary.
Nitzh said she supports installing the cameras because she’s seen some drivers speeding during the active school zone every week.
“I’ve actually seen a kid get hit walking to the bus stop over at my mom’s old house because there were no sidewalks, and she didn’t want to stop in time,” Nitzh said. “She was in a hurry.”
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The state Legislature this year approved using speed detection systems to ticket drivers by mail $100 if they go 10 mph over the speed limit during an active school zone.
And now some other parts of Central Florida are moving to set them up, like the cameras seen in Winter Garden.
The city council approved the first reading of the speed detection system during its Thursday night meeting. Now, the city said the camera discussion will go before a public hearing on Jan. 4.
Palm Bay released a statement following the approval:
This State-led initiative will assist the Palm Bay Police Department in enhancing the safety of our community, specifically within school zones. The program is a proactive measure to mitigate potential risks and uphold the highest safety standards for our citizens.
The safety of our children is paramount. By implementing this program, we wish to create an environment where parents can have peace of mind when sending their children to school.
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