Knoxville, TN (WOKI) – Drivers in Knoxville will soon see a new tool aimed at slowing traffic around schools.
The Knoxville Police Department, in partnership with the City of Knoxville and the Vision Zero initiative, will launch automated speed enforcement cameras in school zones on November 16 as part of a broader effort to improve roadway safety and protect students and school staff.
The program follows Knoxville City Council’s approval of a contract with Chattanooga-based Blue Line Solutions in May 2025. Since then, crews have been installing cameras and supporting infrastructure throughout the city.
By November 16, cameras are expected to be operational in approximately 39 public school zones. Officials said the cameras will be clearly marked with warning signs and will only be active during designated school zone hours in the morning and afternoon.
Police Chief Paul Noel said the technology provides another layer of protection in areas where children are frequently crossing streets and entering or leaving school.
“Keeping kids safe is one of our most important responsibilities, especially in and around school zones where children and school staff are coming and going every day,” Noel said. “Automated speed enforcement cameras are a force multiplier that give us another tool to encourage drivers to slow down and pay attention in these areas.”
Mayor Indya Kincannon emphasized that safety, not revenue, is the program’s focus.
“The goal of this campaign is not to write tickets, but to keep people safe, especially our students,” Kincannon said.
How the System Works
When a vehicle is detected speeding in an active school zone, the system records the violation. A Knoxville Police Department officer will then review the evidence and determine whether a citation should be issued.
Officials stressed that the cameras are not surveillance devices and do not function as license plate readers. The equipment only captures and retains information when a qualifying speeding violation occurs in an active school zone and a citation is approved.
Two-Phase Rollout
The program will begin with a warning phase running from November 16 through winter break. During that time, violators will receive warning notices by mail but will not be fined.
Once students return to class on January 5, the enforcement phase begins. Drivers who receive approved citations will be issued a $50 fine through the mail.
According to city officials, revenue generated from the program will be directed toward safety improvements in school zones and on city streets.
Any newly installed cameras added after the launch will also undergo a 30-day warning period before citations are issued.
Thousands of Violations Identified
City leaders pointed to speed studies conducted in May 2025 that found a significant speeding problem in Knoxville school zones. Over a five-day period, officials documented thousands of instances of drivers traveling well above posted school zone speed limits.
Installation work will continue after the November launch. When complete, the city expects to have cameras and signage operating at 71 sites across 41 school zones.
Officials hope the program will encourage drivers to slow down, increase awareness in school zones and reduce the risk of crashes involving students, staff and families.
