Philadelphia Launches School Zone Speed Camera Pilot

New program aims to improve safety for students and pedestrians near high-risk schools.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The City of Philadelphia is launching a new pilot program that will install speed cameras in school zones around several high-risk schools across the city. The cameras will be active during arrival and dismissal times when the speed limit drops to 15 mph, and drivers exceeding that limit will face $100 fines. Officials say the goal is to improve safety for students, teachers, and parents, and any revenue generated will be used to enhance infrastructure in those areas.

Why it matters

Pedestrian safety, especially for children, is a major concern in many urban areas. This new speed camera program is an attempt by Philadelphia to address the issue of speeding drivers near schools, which has led to a high number of crashes and pedestrian injuries in the past.

The details

The pilot program will initially target five schools that have seen the most crashes and pedestrian incidents: Stetson Middle School, KIPP North Academy, Widener Memorial School, High School of the Future, and Sayre High School. Drivers will receive a 60-day grace period with only warnings issued, but after that, any speeds over 15 mph during school arrival and dismissal times will result in a $100 fine mailed to the vehicle owner.

  • The speed cameras will be activated on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
  • Drivers will receive a 60-day grace period with only warnings issued.

The players

Rich Lazer

Executive director of the Philadelphia Parking Authority, which is overseeing the new speed camera program.

Julien Hill

A seventh- and eighth-grade teacher who supports the initiative.

Mark Mitchell

A North Philadelphia resident who believes the program should be expanded citywide and even statewide.

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What they’re saying

“We want to make sure our kids are safe. That's the most important thing, especially when they're going to school and coming from school.”

— Rich Lazer, Executive director, Philadelphia Parking Authority (6abc.com)

“People should slow down, def. Especially around a school area. I definitely think it will be a good idea.”

— Julien Hill, Seventh- and eighth-grade teacher (6abc.com)

“I think it's a brilliant idea. Our kids need to be safe, people need to slow down, they gotta stop being in such a big hurry.”

— Mark Mitchell, North Philadelphia resident (6abc.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This new speed camera program in Philadelphia is an attempt to improve pedestrian safety, especially for students, by cracking down on speeding drivers near schools. While some residents are supportive, the success of the initiative will depend on whether it leads to a measurable reduction in crashes and injuries in the targeted areas.