Council approves school zone cameras to enhance public safety amid speeding concerns

The North Kingstown Town Council meeting on April 28, 2025, focused on several key issues, including the implementation of speed cameras in school zones and updates on various town projects.

One of the most significant discussions centered on the proposal to install speed cameras in school zones. A council member emphasized that the initiative is not a financial "money grab," but rather a measure aimed at enhancing public safety amid rising speeding incidents across Rhode Island. The council unanimously supported the motion to implement the camera system, highlighting the importance of protecting children in school areas.

In addition to the speed camera discussion, the town manager provided updates on ongoing projects, including the capital improvement project for the local middle school and the public safety complex. The school department is exploring various construction methods to reduce costs while increasing eligibility for state reimbursement. A proposed redesign of the middle school aims to save approximately $8.1 million by modifying the building's structure.

The public safety complex project is also progressing, with internal meetings focused on efficiency and cost-saving measures. The town is working on finalizing a purchase agreement for a site in Quonset, with plans for a public meeting to present updates to the community in the coming weeks.

Other topics included updates on the offshore wind farm project, which is moving forward without significant neighborhood impact, and the Woodford Waterfront project, where a new contractor is set to improve the area ahead of Memorial Day weekend.

The council also discussed upcoming events, including the sale of beach parking passes starting May 1 and a groundbreaking ceremony for the I-95 Quonset connection project scheduled for May 5. The meeting concluded with a reminder for residents to stay informed about ongoing construction projects and potential traffic disruptions in the area.