Police Department reminds public of school zone safety

At the beginning of this new school year, the Oak Ridge Police Department wants to remind the public about school zone safety. All school speeding zones will be in effect, and police officers will provide extra patrols in different areas throughout the city.

“During the summer, we often get out of the habit of slowing down around school zones,” Oak Ridge Police Chief Jim Akagi said in a press release. “With school in session, please plan to take a little extra time to get to your destination. Caution, slow driving, and common sense will help reduce traffic accidents and violations.”

Traffic enforcement cameras are operating in school zone locations at Oak Ridge High School and Willow Brook Elementary.

The school zone speed in front of the Oak Ridge High School on Oak Ridge Turnpike is 20 mph, and the speed zone at Willow Brook Elementary on Robertsville Road, between Iroquois Avenue and Jefferson Avenue, is 15 mph. All other school zones are clearly posted with the appropriate speed.

Drivers are being reminded to come to a complete stop for school bus “stop arms” and watch for students loading, exiting, or crossing in front of the buses. Students are reminded to watch for vehicle traffic as well.

Greater attention is advised while students are present, both before and after school, as many students walk or ride a bicycle to and from school. With the exception of Glenwood Elementary, crossing guards are available to assist students with crossing major intersections. Drivers, parents, and students should look for the crossing guards and follow their directions.

Another important aspect of school safety is for people to be aware of their surroundings. Drivers, parents, and students should report suspicious activity to the police department. Such activity may include people who are loitering around schools with no apparent purpose, unusual behavior of drivers or people in the area, or drug activity or drug exchanges.

Please call the police dispatcher at (865) 425-4399 or text 865-755-ORPD (6773) to report reckless driving, suspicious activity, or any other criminal, medical or fire act.