Fairfield School Zone Speed Cameras To Resume 20-Mph Enforcement

FAIRFIELD, CT — Fairfield will reinstate its 20-mph school zone speed limit Tuesday, Sept. 1, as students return to school, officials announced.

Automated speed enforcement will resume that day in six Fairfield school zones during designated morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up periods. Outside those hours, the regular posted speed limit applies.

The system captures a vehicle's license plate for review and a potential citation when the vehicle is traveling 11 mph or more above the posted speed limit. Speed enforcement remains in effect 24 hours a day.

Below is a table that lists the school zones and times of day when the 20 mph limit will be enforced:

— Table from Town of Fairfield

"As we welcome students and staff back to school, I want to thank drivers for slowing down in our school zones," First Selectperson Christine Vitale said in a statement. "The data is showing that the speed safety camera is doing what it was built to do, improve safety in school zones by reducing speeding and increasing drive awareness. Program data through July 31st shows events in the OSTA-approved school zones have declined by 88 percent, from 6,495 per day during the initial week of operation to 762 per day. Let’s keep the positive momentum going."

Earlier this week, the Representative Town Meeting voted to continue the enforcement program, though some residents and officials called for a pause.

Read More:

• Fairfield Officials Defend Speed Cameras As Residents Press For Changes At Heated Public Meeting

• Survey Launched In Fairfield For Feedback On Road Infrastructure
• Fairfield Officials Project Millions In Revenue From New School-Zone Speed Camera Program
• Fairfield To Start Issuing Fines For Speed Camera Program Next Week
• Installation Underway Of School Zone Speed Enforcement Cameras In Fairfield

• Fairfield Speed Cameras To Continue Enforcement In School Zones This Summer

The town encouraged drivers to slow down, remain alert and avoid distractions, particularly as children cross streets, walk or bike to school, and enter and exit vehicles.

Parents also were encouraged to review safety guidelines with their children, including standing 6 to 10 feet back from school buses, walking against traffic and riding with traffic.

The six school zones were selected based on crash history, engineering analysis and community feedback, according to the town. The enforcement zones have signs notifying drivers of camera monitoring in accordance with state law.

The town also is installing painted pavement markings to alert drivers that they are entering a school zone.

More information about the speed safety camera program and how to appeal a fine is available on the town's website.