More than 1,400 motorists were caught speeding in Chesapeake school zones the last two weeks of May, and the police department’s new speed cameras have the videos to prove it.
Chesapeake Police Department issued more than $140,000 in fines from May 18-31 after two of department’s 10 school zone speed cameras went live. The cameras captured motorists speeding in school zones near Greenbrier Christian Academy and Chittum Elementary School.
The Speed Camera Program was launched in April with two cameras. Similar to red light cameras, speed cameras capture photos of vehicles traveling faster than the posted 25 mph through a school zone.
“No one wants a citation. Getting the mail and seeing that you have a citation in that mail is a not a good feeling,” said Officer Marc Lawrence, who hopes the tickets will help deter motorists from driving too fast.
The $140,000 will go toward the cost of the cameras and installation, which total $370,000.
Drivers who receive a citation can review evidence online.
“We know that this is new technology that we are utilizing. We know that there will be questions and frustration. We know that there may be issues. We will work with citizens to resolve any issues they may have,” Lawrence said.
Lawrence said the police department is using the cameras to protect the safety of students, teachers and crossing guards.
“In this day and age, we have so many things that could distract us from safely driving. This is a stark reminder that we need to focus on driving safely through school zones,” Lawrence said.
All 10 cameras have been installed, but the other eight are still inactive as the department tests them.
The cameras have been placed near Great Bridge Middle School; Southeastern Elementary; Rena B. Wright Primary; Sparrow Intermediate; Deep Creek Elementary, Middle and High schools; Hugo Owens Middle and Deep Creek Central schools; the 3000 block of Tyre Neck at Western Branch Intermediate, Primary, Middle and High schools; Southwestern Elementary; Greenbrier Middle School; and Greenbrier Christian Academy.
Lawrence defined “success” for the Speed Camera Program as all motorists staying within the 25 mph speed limit through school zones.
“But we can only achieve this goal with the assistance of the citizens and drivers,” Lawrence said.
Caitlyn Burchett, 727-267-6059, caitlyn.burchett@virginiamedia.com
