New Westminster school zone hours see a significant change

Heads up, if you’re from New Westminster or you drive through the Metro Vancouver city for work, some rules around school zones are changing in a significant way.

Before these changes, which take effect immediately, school zone hours were 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on school days.

Now, drivers will have to obey the new school zone hours, which are in effect from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on school days.

The City of New Westminster outlines several reasons for the change, mostly pertaining to student and pedestrian safety. The New Westminster mayor says the school zone hour changes impact everyone.

“Extending school zone speed limit hours is an important step in making city streets safer for everyone. By slowing vehicles during times when community members are likely walking, cycling, or rolling through these busy neighbourhoods, we are reducing the risk of traffic-related injuries,” Patrick Johnstone said in a statement.

“This change also supports the City’s Vision Zero commitment, promotes sustainable travel choices, and helps advance Council’s Strategic Priority to improve the safe movement of people in our community.”

Part of the reason for the change is to consider before- and after-school activities.

The changes also consider community groups that use facilities outside of regular hours.

“The change is also aligned with the City’s sustainability and road safety goals, as they encourage walking, cycling, and other modes of active transportation as options for commuting to school,” the City of New West says.

The City states that previous changes were in line with provincial regulations; these new changes are prompted by feedback from parents, school officials, and community members.

“The review took place in the spring, and included analysis of policies from several neighbouring municipalities. In May, Council adopted a motion to adjust the City’s school zone hours to align with the City of Burnaby. New Westminster shares its longest border with Burnaby,” the City adds.

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