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Schenectady is offering a new opportunity for local motorists to save money on defensive driving classes. The city has partnered with AAA Northway to provide a discount on the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) approved six-hour point and insurance reduction courses. Starting in March, these classes will be available at various locations throughout Schenectady for $32, a significant reduction from the usual price of $49.
The courses aim to help drivers refresh their skills and learn safer driving techniques. Participants can also benefit from an average 10% reduction on their monthly auto insurance premiums. Schenectady residents interested in signing up for the course can contact AAA Northway directly at 1-888-761-6058 or via email at kdbaker@northway.aaa.com.
In addition to the discounted courses, Schenectady is implementing a new citywide speed limit of 25 mph, effective March 1, 2025. This change, approved by the city council in January, aims to enhance safety for both drivers and pedestrians. The new speed limit will apply to all city streets except Maxon Road Extension and portions of Erie Boulevard and State Street, which will retain higher limits.
Schenectady Mayor Gary McCarthy emphasized the importance of these initiatives, stating to The Daily Gazette, "A smart city is a safe city. We want it to be walkable, driveable, and we want people to be able to enjoy the good things that are within the city of Schenectady." The police department will initially enforce the new speed limit with a period of soft enforcement, offering warnings instead of tickets to help drivers adjust.