Photo couresty of LetsDriveSafer.
MORNINGSIDE, Md. — The success of Prince George’s County’s LetsDriveSafer initiative, which has significantly reduced stop sign violations in school zones, is influencing neighboring jurisdictions to adopt similar measures.
In response to the positive outcomes observed in towns like Morningside and Colmar Manor, Montgomery County is considering its own legislation to enhance road safety near schools. House Bill 1032, introduced by the Montgomery County Delegation, seeks to authorize the use of stop sign monitoring systems in school zones within the county, contingent upon local approval. The bill aims to replicate the automated enforcement strategies that have proven effective in reducing traffic violations and enhancing pedestrian safety in Prince George’s County.
“This isn’t just about Morningside or Colmar Manor,” said Morningside Mayor Bernard Cann. “We want to see this level of safety broadly in Maryland. Safer streets shouldn’t depend on which town you’re in.”
Photo couresty of LetsDriveSafer.
The proposed legislation has garnered support from various stakeholders, including the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA). In their testimony, WABA highlighted the tragic incident involving two children in Riverdale Park, Prince George’s County, which underscored the need for improved traffic enforcement near schools. They emphasized that automated enforcement is more equitable and scalable than in-person policing and urged the advancement of HB 1032 to promote safe streets and equitable enforcement.
The momentum for enhanced traffic safety measures extends beyond Montgomery County. The Maryland General Assembly is currently reviewing several bills aimed at expanding the use of automated enforcement technologies. For instance, Senate Bill 520 proposes authorizing the State Highway Administration to deploy speed monitoring systems on specific highway segments, reflecting a broader commitment to leveraging technology for road safety statewide.
Local officials in Prince George’s County believe their approach provides a model for other jurisdictions. “Before the program, we found that more than 1,500 drivers per day were running stop signs in Morningside—including in areas where children were stepping off school buses,” said Morningside Police Chief Dan Franklin. “We didn’t have the officer bandwidth to stand at stop signs 24/7, but now we can use technology to help, and drivers are really getting the message.”
“This isn’t about issuing tickets—it’s about preventing crashes,” said Colmar Manor Police Chief Tracy Stone. “When drivers stop at every stop sign, everyone wins.”
As Montgomery County deliberates on HB 1032, the experiences of Prince George’s County serve as a compelling case study. The LetsDriveSafer initiative’s success in reducing stop sign violations by nearly 50% demonstrates the potential effectiveness of automated enforcement in safeguarding school zones. If enacted, Montgomery County’s legislation could further this trend, contributing to a safer environment for students and pedestrians alike.
The legislative efforts in both counties underscore a regional shift towards adopting technology-driven solutions to enhance traffic safety, particularly in areas where vulnerable populations, such as schoolchildren, are present. “Safer streets don’t happen by accident,” said Colmar Manor Town Administrator Greg Holcomb. “When communities take action and send a clear message that reckless driving won’t be tolerated, we see real change.”
As these initiatives progress, continuous community engagement and transparent data sharing will be crucial in maintaining public trust and ensuring the effectiveness of enforcement programs.
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are you trying to say that if you don’t stop the right way at a stop sign you might be given a citaTION? THAT SUCKS.