Lakeland’s School-Zone Cameras To Begin Issuing Citations Aug. 11

As Polk County students return to the classroom on Tuesday, Aug. 11, Lakeland’s 14 school-zone cameras will again begin actively monitoring traffic near eight school entrances, according to a statement from the Lakeland Police Department (LPD).

Drivers traveling more than 10 miles per hour over the posted school-zone speed limit in an active school zone with flashing lights will be issued a $100 citation, mailed to the vehicle’s registered owner.

Installation of the cameras was completed earlier this year as part of Lakeland’s Vision Zero initiative to reduce traffic-related injuries and improve safety for students, school staff, and pedestrians. Since then, drivers who failed to follow posted speed limits during school-zone hours have been issued warning notices.

Camera locations

• Lincoln Academy — eastbound and westbound on 10th Street
• Crystal Lake Elementary/Crystal Lake Middle — eastbound and westbound on North & South Crystal Lake Drive
• Southwest Middle — westbound on South Lincoln Avenue
• North Lakeland Elementary — eastbound and westbound on West Robson Street
• Lakeland High School — northbound on Hollingsworth Road
• Lakeland Highlands Middle — eastbound on Lake Miriam Drive
• Sleepy Hill Elementary — westbound on Sleepy Hill Road
• Dixieland Elementary/Southwest Elementary/Southwest Middle — Beacon Road

The automated cameras capture images of vehicles exceeding the speed limit. According to LPD, the department reviews and approves every potential violation before a citation is issued.

“Our goal has never been to issue citations; it has always been to protect children and encourage safer driving habits,” said Chief Sam Taylor in a statement. “As students return to school, we want every driver to slow down, stay alert, and help us keep our school zones safe. If motorists obey the speed limit, they’ll never receive a citation.”