Commissioner Pushes for Uniform 20 MPH School Zone Speed Limit in Manatee County

With thousands of school zone speeding citations issued in Manatee County since the installation of speed detection cameras, a county commissioner is pushing for consistency in speed limits to prevent confusion among drivers.

By early December 2024, around 9,000 citations had been mailed to drivers caught exceeding school zone limits. The current variation in speed limits—some set at 20 mph and others at 15 mph—is causing motorists to receive unexpected fines, leading to frustration and financial burdens.

To address this issue, Manatee County Commissioner Dr. Bob McCann advocates for a uniform speed limit of 20 mph in all school zones. He believes standardizing the limit will improve safety while reducing the likelihood of drivers unintentionally exceeding the speed limit due to inconsistencies.

Some residents have already adjusted their driving habits, avoiding school zones to prevent potential tickets. Others, like local drivers in Bradenton, support the effort, noting that school zone limits can be significantly higher in other states, making 20 mph a reasonable compromise.

McCann pointed out that certain roads, like those near Bayshore Elementary, currently fluctuate between 15 and 20 mph, creating a challenge for drivers unfamiliar with the changes. He argues that if safety is the main priority, 20 mph is a proven safe speed and should be uniformly applied.

The proposal aims to create a more predictable driving experience for residents while maintaining student safety. Discussions on potential adjustments to school zone speed limits are expected to continue in upcoming county meetings.