Drivers asked to exercise caution is school zones
With students heading back to school in September, motorists are reminded to drive with caution as more children and pedestrians will be walking and biking in school areas.
For pedestrian and driver safety, the city is asking motorists to exercise caution in school zones, and to obey speed limits, no parking and no stopping signs.
Municipal Law Enforcement Officers will be enforcing no parking and stopping regulations and other violations in school vicinities to ensure pedestrian safety.
No Stopping zones may not be used for the purpose of picking up or dropping off school children. The fine for a stopping violation is $60.
No Parking zones may be used for pick-up and drop-off, only when the children are actively entering or exiting the vehicle. Vehicles may not be parked in a No Parking zone to wait for their children; the fine for a parking violation is $30.
School Crossing zones require drivers and cyclists to follow the three-whistle system and wait for the school crossing guard to blow the third whistle, which signifies the crossing has ended and traffic can proceed.
According to the city, school crossing guards will be following health guidelines by wearing masks or face coverings and gloves as they help students and pedestrians travel safely across the streets and through intersections on school days.
School Bus Loading zones are for the exclusive use of school buses or vehicles under contract to the board. Drivers cannot stop or park within this zone for any reason, including to pick up or drop off students, and can be fined $45 for this parking violation.
In addition, there are Community Safety zones on Conlin Road and Simcoe Street North located near the shared Durham College and Ontario Tech University campus.
The Community Safety zones are located on Conlin Road, between Founders Drive and Bridle Road, and on Simcoe Street North, between Niagara Drive/Selleck Lane and the Camus Ice Centre driveway.
Speed limits are a maximum of 50 km/h, with increased penalties for violations, including speeding and careless driving related offense.
Durham Regional Police Services will also be increasing its presence in the area and enforces the Community Safe Zone regulations, as well as conducts enforcement blitzes.