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Narrows council discusses $5,000-per-sign school speed‑zone signs and enforcement options
Summary
Council reviewed a speed study and vendor quotes (about $5,000 per flashing sign with solar) and debated whether the town or school board should pay; members discussed targeting the high school first and noted Virginia limits photo enforcement to school and work zones.
At the Nov. 12 meeting the Narrows Town Council reviewed a traffic-speed study and vendor estimates for flashing, solar-powered school-zone signs and discussed enforcement options.
Town staff told the council the vendor quoted roughly $5,000 per sign including post and solar panels for the locations they examined. Staff said the study captured speed data during school arrival and dismissal windows and that the school board has asked the town whether it would contribute toward the signs.
Council members debated where the town’s contribution, if any, should be targeted. Several members said the high school shows the most concerning speeding data and advocated prioritizing that site. One council member said, “We’ve had 177 violations in a school zone in one week; that’s too much,” urging both signage and enforcement.
Staff and council discussed enforcement mechanics and Virginia law. A staff member noted that photo enforcement in Virginia is limited to school zones and certain work zones. Council members asked staff to return with cost-sharing options and the school board’s formal response so council can decide whether to contribute or include signage in a future budget.
The council did not approve a funding contribution at the Nov. 12 meeting; members asked staff to pursue the school board’s position and to report back.
