During a recent Village Council Workshop in Wellington, officials addressed the pressing issue of pedestrian safety, particularly in school zones. With Florida ranking second in the nation for pedestrian fatalities in 2024, the council emphasized the importance of their Vision Zero initiative, aimed at eliminating traffic-related deaths and injuries.

The meeting highlighted a recent speed study conducted at two local schools, which revealed alarming statistics. Over a 14-day period, 543 vehicles were recorded speeding in these school zones, with a significant number of violations occurring during peak drop-off and pick-up times. Specifically, 424 vehicles were clocked driving between 31 to 40 miles per hour, while 108 vehicles exceeded speeds of 41 to 60 miles per hour. Notably, 11 vehicles were recorded going over 60 miles per hour, far exceeding the 40 mph speed limit.

The data collected underscores the urgent need for enhanced traffic enforcement in these areas. Council members discussed the implications of these findings, noting that the enforcement measures would not only target peak hours but also address speeding incidents throughout the day. This comprehensive approach aims to improve safety for students and pedestrians alike.

In conclusion, the council's discussions reflect a proactive stance on pedestrian safety, with plans to implement stricter enforcement measures in school zones. As the village moves forward with its Vision Zero initiative, the community can expect ongoing efforts to address this critical issue and enhance the safety of its roads.