Alcoa officials announced Wednesday that speed cameras will soon enforce limits in local school zones. A third-party vendor will handle installation, targeting areas flagged by community feedback as high-risk for speeding.

Director of Schools Jake Jones welcomed the move. “We are proud to partner with the City of Alcoa on a solution that provides an invaluable service: the protection of our children,” Jones said. He urged drivers to slow down and stay alert, calling students the community’s top priority.

Two recent traffic studies backed the need for cameras, according to city statements. Vehicles routinely ignored posted speed limits near schools. Alcoa Police Chief David Carswell noted his department’s limited resources prevent constant monitoring.

“We respectfully ask drivers to slow down and comply with posted speed limits, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up time periods,” Carswell said. He stressed that student, family and pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility.

The cameras activate only during school hours for pick-up and drop-off. They roll out in the 2026-27 school year. No upfront costs fall on the city. A third party covers maintenance, and any fines collected go back into pedestrian safety improvements around schools.

Community input drove the decision. Residents repeatedly cited speeding near schools as a major concern. The Safe Streets for All grant, aimed at reducing traffic fatalities and injuries, covers the project expenses.

Alcoa joins a growing number of U.S. cities using automated enforcement in school areas. Officials expect the cameras to deter violations without relying solely on police patrols. Police will still respond to complaints and conduct targeted enforcement.

Jones emphasized collaboration. Working together, he said, will keep Alcoa safe and welcoming for all. Drivers face tickets for violations caught on camera, processed like other traffic citations.

The announcement comes amid national pushes for school zone safety. Federal data shows children face heightened risks near schools during peak hours. Alcoa’s effort targets that exact window.