COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Speed Awareness Monitors program - drive slow for SAM

Chilwell Primary School has been selected for the below Speed Awareness Monitoring program along Pakington St, Newtown.

Geelong City Council is aimed at enhancing school crossing safety with the implementation of speed awareness monitors (SAM). 

The SAM’s are designed to reduce speed and change motorist behaviour in high pedestrian areas. Previous trials within the City have demonstrated the success of the program, with data indicating an average speed reduction of 4 km/h by those initially alerted of exceeding the speed limit.

The signage displays a green smiley face for vehicles driving within the speed limit or a red sad face for those exceeding it. The emojis are also intended to engage young children so that they will encourage their parents and carers to slow down when driving in the area. 

The emojis on the signage can be updated for seasonal holidays like Christmas and Easter or major events such as AFL grand final. This variety helps prevent driver fatigue from seeing the same signs and serves as a continual reminder to drive safely, examples below:

The Speed Awareness Monitors do not have number plate recognition. The signs only record how many vehicles pass the monitors and the speed of vehicles providing us with valuable data on general driver behaviour and effectiveness of the devices.