As the New York City public schools officially opened on Thursday, September 10th, the city government issued a clear appeal to all drivers: please slow down when passing through school zones! The New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) announced the implementation of “School Slow Zones,” with a city-wide speed limit of 15 miles per hour (approximately 24 kilometers per hour). This marks the largest-ever promotion of Sammy’s Law in New York City.
Sammy’s Law is named after Sammy Cohen Eckstein, a 12-year-old boy who tragically passed away in a car accident outside his home in Brooklyn in 2013. The city government plans to expand the slow zones to cover approximately 800 schools across the city by the end of 2026.
In addition to reducing the maximum speed limit, the New York City Department of Transportation is simultaneously redesigning streets around more than 300 schools. Through engineering measures, pedestrian safety is being comprehensively enhanced by increasing sidewalk space, installing safer pedestrian crossings, and adding various vehicle speed control facilities.
The city government is preparing to set up the first street with physical barriers at a school on Clarkson Street. This will be the city’s first school open street with gates to prevent vehicles from entering. Currently, there are 77 “School Open Streets” citywide, allowing schools to prohibit vehicle access during designated times for student drop-offs, breaks, and outdoor teaching.
The Department of Transportation reminds drivers that there will be a large number of students and parents on and around school campuses after the start of the school year. When passing through school zones, it is important to stay vigilant, slow down, and ensure the safety of school children on their way to school.