School Zone Speed Safety Program
Slow Down for Safer School Zones
The Town of Tappahannock is introducing its School Zone Speed Safety Program to encourage safer driving near Tappahannock Elementary School and Essex High School.
The program begins with a 30-day warning period on November 16, 2026, giving drivers time to become familiar with the program before citations begin.
When school zone lights are flashing, slow down, stay alert, and follow the posted speed limit.
Citations begin December 16, 2026.
Additional Program Information
How the Program Works
The School Zone Speed Safety Program uses speed safety cameras to monitor vehicle speeds during approved school zone enforcement periods.
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The school zone speed limit is 25 mph when flashing.
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During the warning period, drivers exceeding the posted speed limit by 11 mph or more will receive a warning rather than a civil penalty.
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Beginning December 16, qualifying violations will be subject to a $100 civil penalty.
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Every potential violation is reviewed by the Tappahannock Police Department before a notice is issued.
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No driver's license demerit points are assessed, and civil violations will not appear on a driver's driving record.
Why the Program Is Needed
Speed studies conducted near Tappahannock Elementary School and Essex High School recorded 1,835 speeding violations over five school days, averaging 367 violations per day.
The studies also found:
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Tappahannock Elementary School: 31 vehicles traveling at 45 mph or faster.
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Essex High School: 58 vehicles traveling at 60 mph or faster.
These speeds were recorded while the 25 mph school zone speed limit was active, highlighting the importance of increased awareness and safer driving near local schools.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Have questions about the Town of Tappahannock's School Zone Speed Safety Program?
We've compiled answers to frequently asked questions about how the program works, enforcement periods, warning notices, civil penalties, and more.
View the School Zone Speed Safety Program FAQs
Additional Resources
For more information about speed safety enforcement and school zone safety, visit:
Full Press Release
Read the Full Press Release – Tappahannock Launches School Zone Speed Safety Program
The program is administered by the Town of Tappahannock and Tappahannock Police Department, with technology and program support provided by Altumint.