james City County to Deploy Speed Cameras in School Zones Amidst Rising violations
JAMES CITY COUNTY, Va. – The James City County Police Department will begin utilizing automated photo speed enforcement in school zones this month, a move prompted by a recent surge in speeding incidents. The programme aims to enhance safety for students and pedestrians near schools.
A speed study conducted in 2024 revealed a significant problem, with nearly 38,000 speeding violations recorded in just five days across several school zones. Cameras will be installed at Stonehouse Elementary, Clara Byrd Baker Elementary, Toano Middle, D.J. Montague Elementary, James River Elementary, Lafayette High, and Norge Elementary schools.The initiative will launch with a 30-day warning period starting september 8th. During this time,drivers exceeding the speed limit will receive a red-marked notice in the mail,informing them of the violation but without any financial penalty.
Full enforcement begins October 8th. Motorists caught traveling more than 10 mph over the posted school zone speed limit will receive a summons in the mail. These citations will be considered civil penalties,carrying a fine but will not result in points on a driver’s licence or impact insurance rates.
Police emphasize the cameras will only operate on school days,when children are present,and when school zone beacons are actively flashing.
“We are committed to changing driver behavior, slowing speeders down, and protecting our children,” the department stated. “Please drive safely in our school zones and in our community.”
