Why New Orleans hasn't turned on school zone traffic cameras yet
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New Orleans has about 70 traffic cameras in school zones. Photo: Carlie Kollath Wells/Axios New Orleans
School has been in session in New Orleans for two weeks, but the city's traffic cameras still aren't issuing tickets in school zones.
Why it matters: They are an essential tool for enforcing low speeds that keep students safe.
The big picture: A new law went into effect in May that restricts traffic cameras and mandates how the revenue is used.
- In school zones, it requires a cooperative endeavor agreement between the city and each school's governing authority.
- That's where the city is stuck.
How it works: The fines from traffic cameras, according to the new law, pay for operating the cameras, and the rest is divided between the school's governing authority and the city.
- If it isn't in a school zone in Orleans Parish, the revenue can only be used for stormwater drainage infrastructure, maintenance and improvements.
Between the lines: The city previously put the $20 million in revenue into its operating budget with no dedicated use, according to NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune.
What's happening: A statement from the city on Wednesday said officials were working with the Orleans Parish School Board, the charter schools, the archdiocese and other governing boards to "implement and finalize" the agreements.
- "Considering the safety of the students, significant stakeholders agree that the red-light cameras should be turned on within the school zones while we all work towards CEA finalization," the statement said.
- The fines will be held in escrow until the paperwork is signed, the city said.
Yes, but: It's unclear when they will be turned on.
- The statement last week said it would be "within the week," but Terry Davis, the mayor's communications director, on Friday declined to give a specific date, noting, "I think they're close to getting that all resolved."
The intrigue: It's unclear why there's a delay with the contracts for a law that was effective May 21.
- Davis told Axios this is "par for the course" with implementing laws.
What's next: The mayor's office urges drivers to take extra caution in school zones.
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