MILTON, Del. - Milton’s Streets and Sidewalks Committee recently held a preliminary discussion about potentially implementing the Delaware Department of Transportation’s Electronic Speed Safety Program within the town.
According to DelDOT, the program would provide automated speed enforcement in work zones or residential areas. For a violation to occur, a driver must exceed the posted speed limit by 11 miles per hour or more.
"On Council I have heard many comments that 'enforcement is the answer' to speeding issues within the town," said Councilwoman Randi Meredith, chair of the Milton Streets and Sidewalks Committee, in an email to CoastTV News, "I don’t hold that opinion personally, but implementing a program of this nature is a possible step in the enforcement direction that many have called for."
Some residents are in favor of the idea, including Lynne Bie, who moved to Milton a year ago.
"I know there's many issues with speeding in Milton. We are new to Milton, and we love it, but I know we live off Route 5 and they do kind of go faster down Route 5 and a little bit in town," Bie said.
DelDOT states that violations issued through the program would be civil penalties only and would not add points to a driver’s license. The agency also says insurance companies are not notified of these violations.
Denise Piastrelli, another Milton resident, cited safety concerns in town, especially during the busy season.
"There's a lot of traffic that goes through the town of Milton, especially, like in the summer months, and the sidewalks are very close. So, safety should always be the first priority, and I think that if that will help, then we should do it," Piastrelli said.
Meredith told CoastTV News the proposal would require significant coordination, planning and funding, but added, "Creating a transportation system that is safe for all road users will continue to be my highest priority."
She said the Milton Streets and Sidewalks Committee will continue its research and discussion at future meetings.