Miami Beach considers school zone speed cameras after new law

In Miami Beach, Florida, the City Commission is considering the implementation of speed cameras in school zones following a new law signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2023. The proposal has emerged due to increasing concerns about the safety of children crossing streets near schools, particularly along busy corridors like Alton Road and 41st Street. Local residents like Kathy Stamos have voiced their fears about speeding vehicles, highlighting how stressful it can be to navigate these areas safely. Commissioner Joe Magazine, who has witnessed the challenges faced by parents, emphasizes the need for these measures to prevent potential accidents. He refers to other cities in South Florida that successfully use speed cameras in school zones to improve safety. If Miami Beach adopts this initiative, it will join cities such as Hialeah Gardens and South Miami, where similar systems are already in place. In South Miami, speed cameras have proven effective, having issued over 2,500 violations in just the first month of operation. This data underscores the urgency and potential impact of implementing a similar system in Miami Beach. The city is actively soliciting bids from vendors capable of installing these cameras, with discussions set to take place in an upcoming city commission meeting. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance safety for children and reduce speeding in areas heavily trafficked by families. Magazine suggests that taking proactive steps now could prevent future tragedies and ensure a safer environment for the community's children.