The Newport Police Department is increasing enforcement in school zones as students return to class Wednesday, Sept. 3, with new automated cameras and enhanced patrols to ensure driver safety.
Police will strictly enforce the 20 mph speed limit in school zones during posted hours Monday through Friday, Lt. Joseph Carroll, the department’s public information officer, said in a news release Tuesday.
The department has installed automated red light and speed cameras at the intersection of Admiral Kalbfus Road and Hillside Avenue. The red light camera operates 24 hours daily, while the speed camera will be active during school hours. The speed limit on Admiral Kalbfus Road is 25 mph.
“Motorists are also reminded that they are required to stop for all school buses when their red lights are flashing,” Carroll said.
Newport officers will conduct targeted patrols and radar checks in school areas over the coming weeks as part of the enhanced enforcement effort.
The city’s five school zones are located near:
- Claiborne Pell Elementary School on Dexter Street
- Rogers High School on Old Fort Road and Wickham Road
- Thompson Middle School on Broadway and Central Street
- East Bay Met School on Girard Avenue
- St. Michael’s Country Day School on Rhode Island Avenue and Gibbs Avenue
The safety initiative comes as school districts across Rhode Island begin the new academic year this week.
