(rdnewsNOW file photo)

By Josh Hall | @Vancan19

effective immediately

Red Deer changing start times for playground zones

Jan 27, 2025 | 5:13 PM

The start time for playground zones and school zones in Red Deer is changing.

The city of Red Deer says that in a bid to increase safety, start times are shifting from 8 a.m. to 7 a.m., effective immediately.

In Red Deer, most of these zones are designated as playground zones, as opposed to school zones, with just a couple exceptions.

“With earlier start times becoming more common for students, we’ve recognized the need to adjust school zone speed limits to reflect these changes,” said Russ Watts, Engineering Services Manager with The City. “By starting the reduced speed limits at 7 a.m., we ensure that drivers are adhering to lower speed thresholds when children are arriving at school, regardless of when their classes begin.”

Although the change will take effect immediately, the city says, there will be a grace period as city staff work to change signs and drivers adjust their routines.

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They add that law enforcement will continue to monitor these locations and will exercise discretion until all speed signs have been changed reflecting the new time.

Drivers are encouraged to adjust their morning routines accordingly. Residents are also urged to report any observed violations using the RCMP non-emergency line at 403-406-2200.