EDMONTON – The City is one step closer to bringing back School Zones – designated speed limits for traffic surrounding schools.
Edmonton hasn’t had designated speed limits for schools or playgrounds since the 1970s, meaning – in most communities – drivers can go 50 km/h.
This issue was studied several times, in 1996, 2000, and 2005, but those city councils decided not to move forward.
However, the current council has several members who want to push forward on enforcing School Zones.
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The plan being considered would apply to School Zones in locations with schools that have Kindergarten, including K-6, K-9, or K-12 schools.
One councillor who wants to see the School Zones reenacted is former school trustee Bev Esslinger.
“We’re one of the last few cities in North America that don’t have them,” she said. “I think it’s important to have a blanket School Zone understanding, so it doesn’t matter which neighbourhood you drive in, you know the rules are the same.”
“It’s really about student safety.”
“We know that for every 10 kilometres lower in speed, it reduces the risk of injury,” Esslinger added.
School Zones would not be implemented in Edmonton right away.
City Administration has been asked to come up with a plan on how it would be implemented and bring it back to council.
Once that plan has been put forward, council might also consider slower speed limits for roads near playgrounds.
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