BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Crews are working to install flashing beacons around 14 schools in Buffalo. But before those cameras even go live, the city needs to decide whether to enforce speed limits for the entire school day, or just for pick up and drop off times.
On Tuesday, Councilman Rasheed Wyatt made a proposal to enforce the law from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., and 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. after receiving complaints.
But a parent whose child goes to Lovejoy Discovery School 43, says the 15 mile per hour speed limit should be enforced for the entire eight-hour school day.
Phil Beavers said there are 750 students at the pre-K through eighth grade school.
And in the case of a fire drill, after school activities or even visiting the nearby public pool, he said they might not be safe if the lower speed limit is not enforced for the full day.
"You have children that are coming and going at all hours of the day or night because they may be sick, they may be straggling, coming in late to school. There may not be a crossing guard here," he said.
"They're on a main thoroughfare. They're on Lovejoy Street and there are issues and accidents and a lot of speeders," said Councilman Bryan Bollman, who represents the Lovejoy District.
He said they may need to look at school zones on a case-by-case basis.
The city is still working on installing flashing beacons and signs to let drivers know they're in a school zone.
Councilman Bollman said the proposal will go to committee next Tuesday for further discussion, and residents are welcome to attend and voice their concerns.
