CRESTVIEW, Fla., Feb. 18, 2026—The city of Crestview began its new school zone safety program near two area schools Feb. 11.

The program has a 30-day warning period designed to educate the public about the newly installed automated speed enforcement systems before it starts issuing speeding tickets.

Automated speed monitors have been set up near Riverside Elementary and Shoal River Middle schools located along East Redstone Avenue.

This is the first of several school zones to receive these safety enhancements, according to a city of Crestview news release.

The warning phase aims to promote full compliance with posted school zone speed limits before any civil penalties are issued.

“This 30-day warning period is about keeping our children safe and giving parents peace of mind,” said Crestview Police Chief McCosker. “By educating drivers and allowing time to adjust their behavior, we are working to reduce speeding in school zones and protect the children who walk, bike and ride to school every day.”

The program was launched in response to data showing excessive speeding in school zones.

An initial speed study conducted by NovoaGlobal, revealed an average of more than 200 speeding violations per day, underscoring the urgent need for continuous enforcement. Redstone Avenue was chosen based on speeding complaints, observations and speed studies, according to the release.

How the program works during the 30-day warning phase:

• Advanced traffic enforcement cameras will monitor vehicle speeds in the designated school zones.
• Warning mailouts will be sent.
• No fines will be issued during this period.
• Beginning March 13, civil penalties of $100 will be assessed for violations. These citations are civil, similar to a parking ticket, and will not impact driving records or insurance (no points).

The program, developed in partnership with NovoaGlobal, uses reliable, advanced automated technology to detect and document violations objectively ensuring consistent enforcement in areas where children are most vulnerable.

“We’re asking all drivers to be alert, slow down and watch for school zone signs and flashing lights,” said McCosker. “This warning period allows everyone to develop safer habits that help protect Crestview’s children and families.”

City of Crestview release