Troy police target speeders in school zone ♥

As published in the Courier-Tribune December 13, 2011

Hugh Martin

TROY —Concern for walkers and elementary schoolchildren has led Troy police to focus on speeders on North Main Street and Russell Street. The Troy Board of Commissioners approved and suggested other speed-prone areas at the Dec. 5 meeting.

Town Manager Greg Zephir reported on the increase in the number of police traffic stops on two of the most heavily-traveled streets in town.

“During the last week many of you have probably noticed that the town’s police department has been performing traffic stops, specifically on North Main and Russell Streets,” Zephir said. “This is in response to numerous complaints that the department has been receiving about the high rate of speed people are traveling on these roads.”

Police Chief Kenny Allen told the board that the stops are an effort to bring awareness to the 20 mph zone.

North Main Street is designated as a 20 mph speed zone and Troy Elementary School is located on North Russell Street. Both streets have sections of the town’s measured walking trail along them. Some of the complaints about the speeding vehicles were made by citizens who use the “Troy Walks” program for exercise.

Zephir said there were also safety concerns for the schoolchildren.

“The Town of Troy, specifically the police department, does not want to issue tickets; however, staff had to provide a response with regards to the amount of complaints we had been receiving,” Zephir said. “Most, if not all, of those being stopped believed the speed limit was 35. ”

Allen was commended by Mayor Roy Maness for the work that the department was doing.

Commissioner Wallace Jones asked Allen if there were plans to target other zones after the current activity is complete.

“No, we’re not that formal,” Allen replied, “but we try to take a proactive stance.”

“We have problems with speeding throughout the town,” Wallace said.

Allen assured Wallace and the board that areas of concern were being addressed and that his department will continue to take care of any issues that need attention.