Return of Speed Cameras Around New York City Schools

The 120 speed enforcement cameras that were put in place in school zones around New York City will be turned back on after their use was suspended in July. Despite proof that these cameras resulted in a 60% reduction in speeding in several areas, the state legislature failed to renew the program by the deadline last month because of disagreements over funding.

Since the failed renewal, advocates have continued to campaign for their use in school zones, including Mayor Bill de Blasio and Governor Andrew Cuomo. This campaigning has finally paid off with city council stating that the cameras will be turned back on in time for the first day of school.

The New Yorkers campaigning for the re-activation of the cameras are evidently very happy because, for them, this is a measure to keep children safe. The introduction of the speed enforcement cameras came after several child deaths at the hands of speeding motorists. Ariel Russo, 4, was killed in June of 2013 in a hit-and-run accident on her way to daycare, the final straw for many parents.

So far, compared to last year, there have been 22 fewer fatalities from speeding motorists, a figure likely reduced by the introduction of the speed cameras. The cameras represent safety and security for the children of New York, something that parents are desperate to keep intact.