Lakewood parents face new speed camera rules as school routes change
City Council introduced two bills to install cameras in school zones and create a safety fund, citing high speeding rates and upcoming district shifts.
By Rebecca Svoboda ·
Drivers in Lakewood, Ohio, may soon face automated enforcement if they exceed the speed limit near local schools. City Council introduced two new ordinances this week that would authorize the use of speed cameras and establish a dedicated fund for student safety.
The first proposal gives the public safety director the power to install cameras in designated school zones. This includes areas surrounding Emerson and Lincoln schools. The second ordinance creates a Safe Routes to School Fund. Revenue from speeding tickets issued in these zones would flow directly into this account. The city can only spend the money on specific safety measures, such as hiring crossing guards or improving street infrastructure.
Council President Sarah Kepple stated that the primary goal is to slow traffic, not to generate revenue. She noted that the city is working to ensure children arrive safely. "Getting kids to school safely has been a priority for council," Kepple said. "Ideally, we won’t issue any citations because people will just slow down in the school zones."
The timing of this proposal coincides with major changes for local families. Many students will switch elementary schools in the 2027-2028 academic year. Since the Lakewood City School District does not provide bus service, these changes will force many children to take new walking routes. A survey for the city's Active Transportation Plan found that 60% of caregivers reported their children walk or bike to school at least sometimes.
Data supports the need for stricter enforcement. A city speed check conducted in December 2022 showed that up to 89% of drivers in the Lincoln school zone exceeded the limit in the morning. The city described this as one set of data points. Katherine Sedar, a parent of two young children, expressed support for the cameras but noted a preference for human oversight. "Cameras are cheaper than crossing guards but as a parent, my preferred method would be crossing guards," Sedar said.
The Lakewood City School District welcomed the initiative in a statement. District officials said they already collaborate with the city and Bike Lakewood on a Safe Routes to School committee. They stated they will continue to support that partnership to find ways to make the area safer for families. The council has referred the ordinances to committee for further review. Kepple said a decision on adoption is likely to happen in the new year.
