Mount Vernon launches school zone speed camera program ahead of first day of school
A new school zone speed camera program will go into effect in Mount Vernon on Thursday, coinciding with the first day of school for students.
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The cameras will enforce speed limits in school zones surrounding both public and private schools throughout the city.
Drivers caught traveling more than 10 mph above the posted school zone speed limit will face a $50 civil fine.
A Mount Vernon police officer will review each violation before a ticket is issued.
"We have been in a testing and warning phase since Aug. 4, and we continue to receive literally thousands of speeding violations where drivers are going above the city speed limit of 30 mph," said Mount Vernon Police Capt. Michel Yant-Terry.
The program comes seven years after the death of 9-year-old Drew Faustin, a fourth grader at Graham School.
Faustin was struck and killed by an SUV while crossing South Columbus Avenue in May 2019.
"He was hit seven days before his 10th birthday and all he wanted to do was be double digits," said his mother, Nicole T.A. Joseph.
According to school officials, about 80% of students in the district walk to and from school each day.
Parents say the new cameras will help improve safety for children.
"This will hopefully slow the cars down, and students will be a little safer coming out of school," said parent Jasmine Burns.
City and school officials are urging drivers to obey speed limits and remain attentive while traveling through school zones as students return to classrooms.
