Central Nova News

As the new school year commences, the Alexandria Police Department is focusing on traffic safety to ensure a secure environment for students, parents, and school staff. The department has launched a Back-to-School Traffic Enforcement Initiative targeting safety during school drop-off and pick-up times.

The initiative emphasizes several critical areas of traffic safety. New signage at the entrance and drop-off areas of Alexandria City High School (ACHS) and Minnie Howard Campuses indicates "No Stopping, Parking, or Standing" zones along King Street or W. Braddock Road to enhance roadway safety. Officers will enforce speed limits in school zones to prevent dangerous driving around children. Increased patrol presence aims to manage traffic flow and reduce parking lot congestion. Additionally, officers will issue tickets for illegally passing stopped school buses and monitor aggressive driving behaviors in school zones.

"The APD is dedicated to the safety and well-being of our students, families, and faculty as they return to school this year," stated Raul Pedroso, Interim Chief of Police. "Our Traffic Safety Unit has worked closely with Alexandria City Public Schools to be proactive in enforcing traffic safety in and around our schools to provide a safe environment for all."

Parents and drivers are advised to expect traffic delays and avoid rushing. Reducing distractions such as cell phone use will help drivers remain attentive to traffic signals, pedestrians, and other vehicles.

Officers will be actively addressing traffic violations around schools. The department urges all drivers to cooperate by driving cautiously for the safety of Alexandria's children. The public is reminded that if they see something suspicious, they should report it by calling 9-1-1 or using the APD non-emergency line at 703-746-4444.

Community members are encouraged to participate in public safety by following these guidelines:

1. Adhere to the speed limit of 15 mph within Alexandria School Zones.

2. Stay alert while driving near crosswalks and bus stops.

3. Refrain from using cell phones while driving.

4. Automated school zone speed cameras are operational at specified locations.

5. Follow left turn signage on Braddock Road into ACHS-Minnie Howard campus.

6. Respect "No standing" signage on King Street for student safety.

7. APD Parking Enforcement Officers enforce city codes prohibiting parking within 20 feet of intersections.

For more information on city ordinances related to parking enforcement: https://library.municode.com/va/alexandria/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIITHCOGEOR_TIT10MOVETR_CH4STSTPA_S10-4-41PAPRCELO