News Flash

June 20, 2023 — City Council last week moved to expand a program that adds $200 to the fine for speeding in certain residential areas. That program was adopted 20 years ago for two streets, and the expansion adds six more residential areas, Public Works Director Jason Mitchell said. 

Streets can qualify for the extra fines if they have sufficient volume of traffic, a speed limit at or below 35 mph, and a finding that 85% of the vehicles are traveling 10 mph above the posted speed limit. 

Neighborhoods that want a street to be considered for the enhanced fines should submit a petition to Public Works signed by 75% of the residents on that roadway, which would trigger a traffic study. The city can also initiate the study if it sees problem areas.

The roads already affected by the increased fines are Charlton Drive from Mercury Boulevard to the dead end, and Big Bethel Road between Mercury Boulevard and Todd's Lane.

These streets were added:

• Northampton Drive from Todd's Lane to Burton Street

• Gilbert Street from King Street to Eagle Point Road

• Michael Woods Drive from Locksley Drive to Big Bethel Road

• Silver Isles Boulevard from Old Buckroe Road to Hall Road

• Farmington Boulevard from Todd's Lane to Estate Drive

• Westview Drive from Saunders Road to the dead end

The increased fines on those roads go into effect immediately but will not be implemented until signage is in place alerting motorists.