It’s a policy that was eliminated in Edmonton decades ago, but a city committee is expected to discuss the idea of putting speed limits in place around elementary schools – hopefully before the next school year.
On Wednesday, the Transportation Committee will discuss the idea of implementing a 30 kilometre an hour speed limit in areas around elementary schools.
For one mother of two, such a change is welcome – Theressa Aiton admits crossing the street to get to the playground near their home in west Edmonton can be nerve wracking.
“Buses go through here very fast, taxis, and a lot of parents too,” Aiton said.
“I don’t like it, it scares me, because there have been many opportunities before and after school where they can potentially get hurt.”
However, one city councillor isn’t convinced reducing the speed limit alone will make much of a difference.
“Statistics have shown that dropping the speed limit in school areas does not necessarily reduce speed of travel,” Councillor Bryan Anderson said.
Anderson believes there are other ways to make roadways near schools safer.
“Lights, or fencing, or crosswalks, or photo radar,” Anderson said.
“I think it is not simply a ‘Hey, could you please slow down’, but something that will require jacked up enforcement.”
If such a bylaw is put in place, requiring signage and education for drivers, it’s estimated it will cost $500,000 – paid through photo radar fines.
With files from Ashley Molnar
