“The intention of the program has always been to improve the safety at school crossings, however, the curtailment of camera hours did not go far enough to address the problems with a program that, while well-intentioned and passed unanimously by Democrats and Republicans, was poorly implemented. I have reassessed the entire program," stated Presiding Officer Gonsalves. “We must now identify other ways to address the safety concerns and will not abandon that goal.”
Presiding Officer Gonsalves announced that she will still require that flashing lights be installed at school zones wherever possible. She has dedicated Community Revitalization Program Funds for this purpose. Despite the public’s distaste for the program, most drivers have actually slowed down at school speed zones, even where there wasn’t a camera. “I hope to continue that behavioral change by posting flashing lights to remind drivers that they are entering a school zone,” said Presiding Officer Gonsalves.
Additionally, the Presiding Officer is working with Nassau’s Acting Police Commissioner, Thomas Krumpter, to increase the police monitoring of school zones, especially where school administrations have expressed safety concerns.