The City of Takoma Park is actively pursuing and has recently gained legislative authority to implement an Automated Stop Sign Enforcement Pilot Program, specifically focusing on school zones. The Takoma Park Police Department is inviting the community to join them for a Community Engagement and Informational Session regarding the recently passed
Automated Stop Sign Enforcement Bill
, which designates Takoma Park as a pilot jurisdiction for this new initiative.
This
in-person only meeting
will take place on Thursday, July 31st at 7pm in the Takoma Park Community Center (7500 Maple Ave.) and will provide an overview of the bill, share locations where traffic studies have been conducted, gather community input on potential enforcement areas, and answer any questions the community may have.
Takoma Park has been a strong advocate for House Bill 1032 and House Bill 1226 (cross-filed with Senate Bill 600), which would allow Montgomery County municipalities, including Takoma Park, to use stop sign monitoring cameras on local streets and state highways, particularly in school zones. These bills have gained favorable consideration and some have been approved by the Governor, enabling this pilot program.
The primary goal is to enhance traffic safety and reduce the risk of accidents caused by drivers failing to obey stop signs, especially in areas where many people, particularly students, walk to school. It’s seen as a crucial component of their “Safe Routes to School” program and broader Vision Zero goals to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and severe injuries.
Similar to existing speed and red-light camera programs, the system would use cameras to automatically capture violations. Citations would then be issued to the registered owner of the vehicle.
technology to address non-compliance with traffic laws.
