Leesburg, VA (August 13, 2026) – With students returning to school, the Leesburg Police Department (LPD) is reminding motorists to slow down, stay alert, and use extra caution when traveling through school zones and residential areas.

The start of a new school year means increased pedestrian, bicycle, school bus, and vehicle traffic throughout the Town of Leesburg. Drivers should anticipate additional congestion during morning arrival and afternoon dismissal and allow extra time to reach their destinations.

“Back-to-school safety is a shared responsibility,” said Leesburg Police Chief Thea Pirnat. “We are asking drivers to put away distractions, slow down, and pay close attention—particularly around schools, bus stops, crosswalks, and neighborhoods. A few extra seconds of patience can make a significant difference in keeping our students safe.”

The Leesburg Police Department reminds motorists to:

• Slow down in school zones and obey all posted speed limits and be cognizant that speed limits change during arrival and dismissal times. 
• Watch for students walking or biking to and from school, particularly near crosswalks, intersections, and bus stops.
  Stop for school buses when required by law and never attempt to pass a stopped school bus when its red lights are flashing and stop arm is extended. 
• Eliminate distractions by putting phones and other devices away while driving. 
• Allow extra travel time during school arrival and dismissal periods. 
• Follow the directions of crossing guards and law enforcement officers assisting with traffic around schools.
• Be patient. Increased traffic and delays are expected during the first several days of school as families adjust to new routines.

Parents and caregivers are also encouraged to review safe walking and biking practices with students, including using designated crosswalks, looking both ways before entering a roadway, and remaining alert to surrounding traffic.

LPD also reminds motorists that the Town of Leesburg's School Zone Speed Safety Camera Program is in effect at designated school zones. The cameras are intended to encourage drivers to reduce their speed and help protect students, families, school staff, and others traveling through these areas.

Speed safety cameras are located at the following school zones and operate during the designated times.

John W. Tolbert Jr. Elementary School & Harper Park Middle School - Potomac Station Drive NE
Morning: 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.
Afternoon: 2:45 p.m. – 3:48 p.m.

Ball's Bluff Elementary School - Battlefield Parkway NE
Morning: 7:30 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.
Afternoon: 2:45 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.

Loudoun County High School - Dry Mill Road SW and Catoctin Circle SW
Morning: 9:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Afternoon: 4:18 p.m. – 4:48 p.m.

Additional information about the School Zone Speed Safety Program, including program details and frequently asked questions, is available on the Town of Leesburg website:  SCHOOL ZONE SPEED SAFETY PROGRAM

Drivers should pay close attention to posted school zone signage and reduce their speed accordingly. The speed safety cameras operate only during the designated school zone enforcement periods.

LPD officers will also be visible throughout the community as students return to school, with an emphasis on traffic safety and compliance in and around school zones.

Whether driving, walking, biking, or riding the bus, everyone has a role in helping make the start of the school year safe.

Slow down. Stay alert. Give yourself extra time. Help us keep Leesburg's students safe.


Media Contact: 
Michele Bowman, MPIO  
571-541-7757
LPD-PIO@leesburgva.gov