With the new school year starting, Bedford drivers should be aware of the city’s rules for school zones and crosswalks—especially during arrival, dismissal, and recess times.
School Zone Speed Limit
In Bedford, the maximum speed in a school zone is 20 miles per hour during:
- School recess
- When children are arriving or leaving school during opening or closing hours
- Any time 20 mph school speed limit signs are posted
Flashing lights are not required on school zone signs, so drivers should slow down whenever children may be present, even if no lights are activated.
What Counts as a School
The ordinance covers not only public and chartered private schools, but also approved nonchartered schools, certain special elementary schools, and qualifying preschool programs. These schools can request the creation of a designated school zone, complete with signage.
School Zone Boundaries
School zones typically extend up to 300 feet in each direction from the school property lines, or from marked pupil crosswalks. The Ohio Director of Transportation may extend these boundaries upon request from the city.
Crosswalks Near Schools
If a crosswalk is commonly used by students and is located within 1,320 feet of a school, the city can designate it as part of a school zone. This zone includes the crosswalk area and 300 feet on either side, creating a wider buffer for student safety.
Safety Reminder
Even outside of posted hours, slowing down near schools and crosswalks keeps students safe and avoids costly citations. When in doubt, ease off the gas—Bedford’s youngest pedestrians are worth the extra seconds.
