The Orleans Parish School Board accepted an agreement with the city which will allow school zone cameras to be legally turned back on. 

Under the agreement, NOLA Public Schools, a community of 66 public schools in New Orleans, will receive 40% of the net revenue collected from traffic cameras in school zones. 

This comes after the cameras were turned off for the majority of August because they didn’t comply with state law, which requires revenue sharing between municipalities and school governing authorities. 

At the beginning of August, the city announced that speed tickets will not be issued via speed cameras at almost any location. However, it urged drivers to follow traffic laws, especially in school zones.

“Everyone is strongly encouraged to drive safely and remain within the posted speed limits at all times,” the city said in a statement. “Speeding increases the risk of serious injury or death for both drivers and pedestrians.”

Katie Baudouin, OPSB President in District 5, expressed optimism about the agreement allowing NOLA Public Schools to receive part of the revenue. 

“This agreement represents a significant step forward in supporting our public schools and enhancing student safety,” said Baudouin. “By partnering with the City, we’re not only complying with state law but also channeling vital resources back into our classrooms, programs, and facilities. These funds will help us continue providing a high-quality education to every child in New Orleans, while reinforcing the importance of safe driving in school zones.”

However, the agreement will likely cause traffic camera revenue to nosedive. 

During a conference, city leaders projected the general fund will bring in $3.3 million dollars in 2025, down from $19.3 million in 2023. 

New Orleans chief economist Matthew Cooper expects revenue to rebound to about $5 million in the coming years.