Blacksburg’s school-zone speed safety program is in its enforcement phase at Gilbert Linkous Elementary School and Blacksburg Middle School, following a 30-day warning period that began Aug. 10.
According to the Town of Blacksburg, vehicles traveling 11 miles per hour or more above the posted speed limit while a school zone is active may receive a citation. Full enforcement began Sept. 9.
The two monitored areas are on Toms Creek Road near Gilbert Linkous Elementary and on Prices Fork Road near Blacksburg Middle School. Drivers should watch for posted school-zone signs and flashing beacons that indicate when the reduced limit is active.
What drivers should know
The threshold described by the town is tied to the active school-zone period, not the normal speed limit at all hours. The practical rule is straightforward: slow down when the school-zone signals are operating and allow extra time for students, families, buses and crossing traffic.
The program’s stated purpose is to reduce dangerous speeding near schools. The town used the warning period to notify drivers before citations began, giving motorists time to become familiar with the monitored locations.
Residents with questions about a specific notice should use the contact and review information printed on that notice. General program details are available from the town.