MANCHESTER, Mo.—Drivers in Manchester neighborhoods near a pair of Parkway school district buildings will soon notice new signs warning of increased fines for traffic violations.
The Board of Aldermen last week passed an ordinance creating an “Increased Safety Area” along the following streets:
The intersection of Wren Ave. and Sulphur Springs Rd.
Wren Ave. from Sulphur Springs Rd. to the Southwest Middle School property line
Canary Dr. from Wren Ave to the intersection at Cardinal Lane and Big Bend Woods Dr.
Manchester police chief Scott Will told Spectrum News his department has taken complaints from residents and parents in the area about problem drivers. The zone includes two schools, Parkway Southwest Middle School and Wren Hollow Elementary School, which see increased vehicular traffic and children walking to school as Parkway, along with other districts, have cut the number of bus routes because of a driver shortage.
A focused ticketing campaign in February didn’t act as a significant deterrent, Will said, leading to the ordinance that will double fines for traffic offenses like speeding, following too closely, careless and imprudent driving, improper lane usage and failure to yield.
Warning signs will go up soon in the area, with the doubled fines being in effect as early as April 20.
“Your safety remains our top priority, and we appreciate your cooperation in adhering to the regulations outlined in the ordinance. Together, we will continue to create safer streets for all members of our community,” Will said in a letter to the community also signed by Mayor Mike Clement and City Administrator Justin Klocke.
Tickets for minor infractions will be capped at $250, including court costs.
