In response to a troubling rise in student fatalities, the City of Lakeland is moving forward with an ordinance to install speed cameras in school zones. The proposed measure aims to deter speeding and protect students by enhancing traffic enforcement in high-risk areas.

During the 2023–2024 school year, Polk County Public Schools reported 25 student-involved traffic crashes, resulting in 13 student deaths. The loss of young lives has galvanized city leaders to act swiftly to prevent further tragedies.

Among the incidents were the deaths of several students who were struck on their way to school. In December 2023, Jaxon Crabtree was hit while biking to school. The following month, 15-year-old Yeriell Gonzalez was fatally struck en route to Auburndale High School. Weeks later, Bartow High School student Zachariah Clabough died in a hit-and-run involving a speeding vehicle.

Motivated by these heartbreaking events, the city is now pushing forward with a plan to install speed cameras at multiple schools. The ordinance was advanced on Monday, with Lakeland Police Sergeant Chad Mumbauer—who leads the initiative—emphasizing the goal of slowing traffic and raising public awareness about student safety.

A traffic study conducted in May 2024 revealed widespread speeding near school campuses. At eight schools alone, nearly 850 violations occurred daily. These campuses include Lincoln Academy, Crystal Lake Elementary, Philip O’Brien Elementary, Southwest Middle, North Lakeland Elementary, Lakeland High School, Lakeland Highlands Middle, and Sleepy Hill Elementary. Installing cameras at these locations will allow police to shift resources to other schools that also require attention.

Assistant Chief Hans Lehman of the Lakeland Police Department highlighted that the cameras would act as a “force multiplier,” enabling more efficient use of police personnel across school zones.

If the ordinance passes, a 30-day public awareness campaign will precede enforcement. After that, drivers caught speeding in designated school zones may face a $100 fine. Sergeant Mumbauer noted that these types of automated enforcement systems tend to reduce repeat offenses, citing the success of red-light camera programs.

As one of the fastest-growing counties in the country, Polk County’s increasing traffic volume makes the need for enhanced student safety more urgent than ever. The city aims to eventually expand camera coverage to all schools.

The ordinance’s second reading and public hearing are scheduled for June 2. Revenue from camera-issued fines will fund school security improvements, traffic safety initiatives, and crossing guard recruitment efforts.

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