Cape Coral is ramping up school zone safety with the introduction of speed enforcement cameras. With thousands of violations already recorded, city officials emphasize that the RedSpeed camera program is about saving lives, not just issuing tickets.
Cape Coral Police Chief Anthony Sizemore discussed the program's early numbers and objectives with WINK News. The initiative aims to ensure drivers slow down in school zones, especially as classes begin on August 11.
“12,000 violations in a very small sample size shows that it's not confusion, it's not the system. It's people that are driving at a minimum 11 over at any given time of the day," said Sizemore.
The RedSpeed camera program, launched quietly late last school year, automatically detects and cites drivers speeding in school zones. Sizemore stressed that the program's primary focus is child safety.
"Finally we are doing something to help these kids and I know as a parent with a child in the school system myself, I like when do we stuff to keep kids safe," said Sizemore.
During the last school year, 12,509 violations were issued, with 8,870 fines paid. The top recorded speed in a school zone was 65 mph, and 92 mph during regular hours.
Just over 70% of violators have paid their fines, and while some are contesting their tickets, nearly all hearings have upheld the violations.
“I didn't see the lights or I wasn't paying attention to the lights again red speed did not invent the concept of paying attention, you need to do that people are counting on that," said Sizemore.
With flashing signs and new cameras already in place, the city’s message is clear: slow down.
Sizemore concluded, emphasizing the importance of driving safely, saying, "Drive like your own kid is walking to school. That’s the goal here."