Speed Cameras in School Zones

A Resolution to Authorize Speed Cameras in School Zones

WHEREAS, government agencies at the regional, state, and federal level are encouraging children to increase their physical activity and promote cleaner air by walking or riding bicycles to school; and

WHEREAS speeding drivers cannot stop in time to avoid hitting a child who darts into the street; and

WHEREAS, crash severity increases exponentially with speed; and

WHEREAS, a national survey of speeding in school zones found that two-thirds of drivers exceeded the posted speed limit during the 30-minute periods before and after school; and

WHEREAS, people who don’t follow school zone rules cause 200 deaths and close to 17,000 injuries to children every year in the United States; and

WHEREAS, congestion in metro Atlanta is influencing an increasing number of drivers to take alternate routes where many schools are often located; and

WHEREAS, photo enforcement is a proven technology in slowing drivers down and reducing collisions and has been deployed by law enforcement agencies in more than 75 countries around the world for more than 30 years; and WHEREAS, according to polls, more than two-thirds of the American public supports photo enforcement; and

WHEREAS, cities in metro Atlanta have an interest in making walking a safe, inviting, and natural part of a vibrant community life that encourages active living; and

WHEREAS, the Georgia General Assembly has authorized the use of camera systems to ticket drivers who run stop lights;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Metro Atlanta Mayors Association supports passing legislation that authorizes communities in Georgia to use camera systems to ticket speeders in school zones.

Approved September 30, 2004