Multiple Florida, Virginia Counties Install School Zone Speed Cameras Ahead New School Year

Several U.S. counties and cities are implementing or expanding automated speed enforcement (ASE) programs with speed cameras near schools to improve student safety as the new 2025–2026 school year begins. James City County, Virginia, will start its ASE program in August, issuing $100 fines to drivers exceeding the speed limit by 10 mph during active school zone hours, following a 30-day warning period. Palm Beach County, Florida, is installing over 30 speed cameras across multiple municipalities, with fines similarly issued after initial warnings, primarily targeting speeding before and after school hours. In Doral and Hollywood, Florida, speed camera programs are being expanded or newly introduced, with $100 fines starting mid-September, focusing on drivers exceeding speed limits by 10 mph or more during school zone hours; these initiatives have sparked some community debate about ticketing beyond school hours. Officials and supporters emphasize the programs' importance in protecting children walking, biking, or scooting to school, citing data on frequent speeding violations, while some residents express concerns about enforcement timing. Overall, these measures reflect a growing nationwide effort to use technology for safer school zones and reduce traffic-related risks for children.