The City of Decatur Police Department implemented an automated photo speed enforcement program in October 2024 to deter speeding in school zones. Statistics show that a child hit by a car traveling at 40 MPH has a 1 in 10 chance of survival. If the speed is reduced to 20 MPH, the child's survival rate improves to 9 in 10. Speeding is a significant factor in accidents, causing injuries and deaths.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2021, 64% of child pedestrian fatalities happened during the week between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. The new program is part of our commitment to change driver behavior, slow speeders down, and protect our children. We aim to enhance safety in Decatur school zones for students, parents, teachers, and motorists.
Five (5) cameras have been strategically mounted by Decatur Police at the following locations:
| SCHOOL | STREET | HOURS OF OPERATION | HOURS OF OPERATION |
| Westchester Elementary School | Scott Boulevard | 7:20 - 8:20 AM | 2:50 - 3:50 PM |
| Clairemont Elementary School | Clairemont Avenue | 7:20 - 8:20 AM | 2:50 - 3:50 PM |
| Beacon Hill Middle School | West College Avenue | 7:45 - 8:45 AM | 3:45 - 4:45 PM |
| Clairemont Elementary School | Church Street | 7:20 - 8:20 AM | 2:50 - 3:50 PM |
| SCHOOL | STREET | HOURS OF OPERATION | HOURS OF OPERATION |
| Winnona Park Elementary School | South Candler Street | 7:20 - 8:20 AM | 2:50 - 3:50 PM |
School zones are marked with posted speed limit signs, a combination of flashing lights, and other tools to notify drivers of the reduced speed limits. Newly installed cameras will identify non-compliant motorists traveling at 10+ MPH over the posted speed limit.
- Motorists exceeding the speed limit by 10+ MPH will receive a citation with a $100 fine.
- Motorists exceeding the speed limit are fined $150 for subsequent violations.
- Photo speed cameras will be active on school days during school zone hours.
CAMERA PLACEMENT
- Beacon Hill Middle School
- Clairemont Elementary School
- Westchester Elementary School
- Winnona Park Elementary School
Safe streets should be important to everyone. In Decatur, the ideal street is one where all users—motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists, young, old, or disabled—can navigate safely. As we continue our work to foster more inclusive roadways, the Decatur Pace Car program is an exciting opportunity for residents to participate actively in the solution.
The Decatur Pace Car Program
The premise is simple: Driving safely helps set an example and encourages similar behavior from others.
In displaying a Pace Car sticker or magnet on the rear of your vehicle, you can express your commitment to a safer Decatur for all by:
- Driving at or below the posted speed limit
- Obeying the rules of the road
- Stopping for or yielding to pedestrians
- Sharing the road with bicyclists
Visit www.decaturga.com/pacecar to find out how to get a sticker or magnet to show your support for the Decatur Pace Car Program.
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