The City of Greater Geelong has begun a trial program to slow down traffic and increase safety around schools.
Speed awareness monitors (SAMs) have been installed near Montpellier Primary School and Moolap Primary School to alert drivers to how fast they are travelling and record traffic speed data.
The signs display the speed of oncoming vehicles and an emoji – a green smiling face for those under the limit, a red sad face for those going too fast.
Previous trials at other councils showed the SAMs were successful in encouraging speeding drivers to slow down.
City Transport portfolio chair Councillor Ron Nelson said the SAMs were aimed at protecting Geelong’s most vulnerable community members.
“We are excited to trial these monitors which have had success in other municipalities and led to a drop in speed of 8.1 km/h by drivers exceeding the speed limit,” Cr Nelson said.
“Council looks forward to seeing the results of a comprehensive project evaluation following the trial, which will gauge the effectiveness of this initiative at these locations.”
Mayor Trent Sullivan said the council introduced the new initiative to enhance school crossing safety.
“By slowing down behind the wheel, we are making our school crossings safer for school children, families and school staff at Moolap Primary School and Montpellier Primary School,” Mayor Sullivan said.
“Our new Speed Awareness Monitors will remind drivers that road safety is everyone’s responsibility, as we work towards our Vision Zero goal.”
