SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. – The Spokane Valley City Council is considering a new proposal to implement speed cameras in school zones, aiming to enhance safety for children and pedestrians.
The council is set to hear public opinions on the matter at their Tuesday night meeting. According to city data, 31% of fatal crashes in Washington are attributed to speed. With an increase in incidents involving cars and people, the council is prioritizing the safety of vulnerable individuals.
Spokane already has eight school zone cameras. While results have varied, there were 6,000 fewer citations in 2024 compared to the previous year. In 2024, over 17,000 citations were issued for speeding in 25-mile-per-hour school zones. In 2023, nearly 24,000 tickets were handed out, and in 2022, more than 20,000 citations were made.
Most drivers were caught going between 28 and 32 miles per hour, while 28% exceeded 33 miles per hour.
Spokane Valley aims to introduce these speed cameras in some school zones, potentially generating around $3.5 million. Councilman Al Merkel highlighted the community’s concern about speeding.
“This is the number one thing I hear from residents all of the time. Speeding in school zones is really a large concern. You can’t argue with numbers like 47% or greater. So this seems like a pretty strong tool for that,” Merkel said.
Recent data supports the council’s concerns. Centennial Middle School recorded 855 speeders, Bowdish Middle School had 552, while University High and Riverbend Elementary followed. No speeders were captured near Ponderosa Elementary.
It’s important to note that if the city moves forward with speed cameras, these citations would be similar to parking tickets, not affecting driver’s licenses. Council members will not make a decision Tuesday night, but if approved, the cameras would be installed at the start of the 2026 school year.
For more information on the proposal and its potential impact, stay connected with Spokane Valley City Council updates.
