School zone slow down will start earlier this year in Kelowna

Every year, motorists are reminded to slow down in school zones when classes get underway.

This year, drivers will be slowing down earlier than ever.

School zones in Kelowna will now be in effect starting at 7:30 a.m. rather than 8 a.m. to ensure students safety as they arrive to school.

“The Board appreciates that Kelowna City Council has changed the school zone times to reflect that students are often in the vicinity of schools earlier than 8 a.m.” said Moyra Baxter, Chairperson for the Board of Education in a press release.

“It’s a small but significant change that keeps student safety top of mind,” said Dave Gibson, Regional Traffic Safety Officer with the Central Okanagan School District in the same release. “With more morning programs available to students of all ages, from elementary to high school, the change more accurately reflects the time-frame that students are active around, and arriving at school.”

The 30 km/h school zone speed limit will be in effect from 7:30 a.m. until 5 p.m., unless otherwise posted.

School zone signs in Kelowna have been changed to reflect the earlier start time.