The Madison County Board of Supervisors will host a public hearing next week to receive feedback regarding the possible placement of cameras in the school zones.
Several weeks ago, county officials met with a salesman about placing cameras in the school zones for safety. Several other localities already have similar cameras, including Greene County.
Currently, the focus for the cameras would be to locate them on U.S. 29 adjacent to Madison County High School. However, supervisor Carty Yowell said he’s noticed speeders on Fairground Road as well.
“There’s people going a lot faster than 45 mph,” he said. “I even find myself guilty of I look down and oh goodness because its a straight shot you know and if you’re coming toward town you’re going downhill. It’s just easy to fly through there.”
The Waverly Yowell Elementary School zone on Main Street in the Town of Madison is not part of the conversation.
The county already has some outdated equipment in the school zone on U.S. 29 so it’s possible to replace that equipment and install the new cameras at the same time, county administrator Jonathon Weakley said. He estimated the cost at approximately $60,000 and noted the company selling the cameras has indicated it would cover a portion.
Those found speeding through the school zones via speed camera are given a civil penalty. A bill moving through the General Assembly would have required the funds paid to be used for the Virginia Highway Safety Improvement Program. That bill, HB2041, passed the House and was referred to the Senate Committee on Transportation, but failed to report from the committee. A similar Senate Bill, SB1233, passed the House with a substituted version, but failed in the Senate.
Anyone wishing to comment on school zone speed cameras being installed in Madison County can contact Weakley at jweakley@madisonco.virginia.gov by Feb. 20 at 4 p.m. to have the comments included in the agenda packet. A public hearing will be held Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 6 p.m. at 414 N. Main Street, Madison.
