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Council approves school‑zone sign modernization with networked flashers and radar feedback signs
Summary
After extensive discussion on timing, costs and equity, the council approved an ordinance to modernize school-zone signs citywide with solar networked flashers and radar feedback devices aimed at improving compliance and collecting speed data.
The Carmel Common Council on Sept. 15 approved an ordinance to modernize school-zone signage at 32 school-zone locations using solar-powered, networked flashers and radar feedback signs meant to improve driver compliance and gather speed data.
Director of Engineering Brad Pease introduced the proposal, saying the goal is “safer for our kids, safer for the parents, smarter for drivers.” The package includes uniform wind‑flashing signs at 32 locations, remote scheduling so signs flash only when students are present, solar power for off‑grid operation and radar feedback signs that display vehicle speeds and collect data the city can use for later enforcement and planning.
Pease told the council the city would adopt a schedule that sets most school zones to flash 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., with one middle school retaining a 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. schedule based on after‑school activity. He said the ordinance and the equipment purchase are separate steps; the city can change schedules later based on data collected from the radar displays.
Councilors asked about equity for private and smaller schools, energy savings (the new units are solar and LED), procurement and whether schools or the city would control activation for individual events. Pease said the technology allows remote control but the ordinance as adopted ties activation to a school-day schedule rather than ad‑hoc school control; he said the city coordinated schedules with school resource officers and Carmel Clay Schools administration.
The estimated project cost presented to council was roughly $450,000; Carmel Clay Schools agreed to contribute about $50,000 because the district had planned for a similar upgrade. Councilors suggested potential future matching programs for privately run schools and day cares that currently lack school zones.
After extended debate about process, fairness and scope, Council approved second reading of Ordinance D-27-82-25 on a 7–yes, 1–abstain vote. Several councilors asked staff to return with data after the new radar displays are in place and recommended an outreach process for schools not included in the initial purchase.
