Davenport, Fla. – Beginning Monday, the Davenport Police Department will operate automated speed‑enforcement cameras at Horizons Elementary School. The move follows a municipal traffic‑safety study that identified the school zone as the area with the highest incidence of speeding among local schools.
Study reveals widespread speeding
During a two‑day monitoring window, the study recorded almost 200 drivers traveling more than 10 mph over the posted 35 mph limit. That averages to roughly 100 drivers per day exceeding the speed limit during school hours.
30‑day warning period before citations
The program begins with a 30‑day warning period. During this time, cameras will record violations, but citations will not be issued. After the warning period, each violation will result in a $100 citation. Sixty percent of the fine goes to the city and the camera‑vendor; the remaining 40 percent is allocated to the School Crossing Guard Program, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Polk County School Board.
Police chief emphasizes child safety
Police Chief Steve Parker stressed that the primary goal is protecting children, not generating revenue. “The reason we did this is obviously for the safety of the children. The children are our future, and we have to do something to protect them in school zones,” Parker said. “Our purpose is not to issue citations to people; it is to get drivers to slow down and drive more carefully, especially in school zones.”
Community response
Local resident Connor Ary voiced concern about the busy crossing near the school. “We get about 50 kids that come around and walk on this crossing every morning,” Ary explained. He added, “I’m concerned for the kids because there is a lot of speeding that goes around here.” Ary expressed hope that the automated system will change driver behavior: “I hope the cameras help people pay attention to the road and slow down.”
Enforcement and appeal process
Motorists who receive a citation may appeal directly to the city magistrate. If a driver ignores the notice for 30 days, the violation escalates to a Uniform Traffic Citation, which can lead to license suspension for non‑payment.
Potential expansion
City officials indicated that additional school zones could receive speed‑enforcement cameras if future data demonstrate a continued need for traffic safety measures.
By placing the cameras in a high‑risk area and giving drivers a clear warning period, Davenport aims to reduce dangerous speeding and safeguard the children who travel through Horizons Elementary each day.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
