New Westminster, B.C., is extending school zone speed limits as students return to class this fall. The city’s move aims to improve safety for children and reduce traffic risks near schools.
The updated rules will lower speed limits in designated school zones during peak hours. Officials hope this will give drivers more time to react to pedestrians and cyclists, especially young students navigating streets on their way to school.
City leaders say the change is part of a broader strategy to make streets safer for everyone. Traffic calming measures, like extended school zones, have been shown to reduce accidents and create a safer environment for children and families.
School zones in New Westminster will now enforce slower speeds for longer distances around schools. Signs marking these zones are being updated to reflect the new limits. The changes also come with public awareness campaigns to educate drivers on the importance of slowing down near schools.
Parents and guardians have welcomed the move, saying it provides extra safety during busy drop-off and pick-up times. “Knowing that cars are moving slower near the school makes me feel safer letting my children walk or bike to class,” said a local parent.
Traffic safety experts highlight that slower speeds give drivers more time to stop, reducing the chance of serious injuries. “Even a small reduction in speed can have a major impact on pedestrian safety,” said a traffic analyst. “Extending these zones helps protect children, who are among the most vulnerable road users.”
The extension comes at a time when cities across Canada are reviewing school zone safety. New Westminster joins other municipalities in implementing longer hours and distances for school zones. Officials hope the city’s approach will serve as a model for others aiming to protect children near roads.
City transportation officials have also noted that the change aligns with Vision Zero goals, an international initiative to eliminate traffic deaths. By reducing speed near schools, New Westminster hopes to lower the risk of collisions and create safer streets for all residents.
Motorists are encouraged to follow the updated rules and watch for new signage indicating the extended zones. Fines for speeding in these areas remain strict, reinforcing the city’s commitment to student safety.
Community groups are helping raise awareness about the change. Schools are sending information to parents, and local media outlets are covering the update to ensure drivers understand the new limits.
In addition to slower speeds, the city continues to invest in crosswalks, traffic lights, and pedestrian signals to enhance safety near schools. Officials emphasize that speed reduction is just one part of a larger effort to protect young pedestrians.
As students settle into the new school year, city leaders hope the extended school zones will prevent accidents and encourage safer travel habits. The initiative reflects a growing trend in urban planning that prioritizes people over traffic, aiming to create streets that are safe and accessible for everyone.
By extending school zone speed limits, New Westminster is taking proactive steps to protect children, promote road safety, and foster safer communities. Officials encourage drivers to remain vigilant and cautious, particularly during school hours.
