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Governor Kathy Hochul has signed a bill establishing a School Speed Zone Camera Demonstration Program in Schenectady. Sponsored by Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, the program aims to enhance safety for students, families, and pedestrians by installing speed cameras in up to 20 designated school zones, including high school areas. The cameras will enforce a 20 MPH speed limit in these zones.
The program, which has a five-year timeframe to measure its effectiveness, is part of a broader effort to make city streets safer. Santabarbara emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, "Every parent wants to know their child is safe when they step off the bus or cross the street to get to class." He added that the program sends a clear message about prioritizing children's safety.
The initiative follows the success of a similar program in Albany, where speed cameras generated $6.7 million, with a portion of the funds going to the traffic safety solutions company. The Schenectady program is set to run until December 31, 2030, and will be evaluated for its impact on reducing speeding in school zones.
As the new school year begins, Santabarbara urged drivers to slow down and be mindful of school zones, highlighting that "slowing down is a simple step that protects lives."