Lacombe, Alberta (February 11th, 2026) – Lacombe City Council has given third reading to Traffic Bylaw 506.2, amending local school and playground zone operating hours to better reflect current student travel patterns and enhance safety across the community.

The amendments adjust start times for school and playground zones to align with when children are most likely to be present, with updated hours for all school zones, including Terrace Ridge School, which requested the review following changes to its daily schedule. Effective following third reading, the updated operating hours are:

School Zones

• Morning: 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
• Midday: 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• Afternoon: 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Playground Zones

• 7:30 a.m. to one hour after sunset

Previously, school and playground zones generally began at 8:00 a.m. The new start time of 7:30 a.m. reflects earlier student arrival times and increased morning activity around schools and playgrounds.

“These changes are about keeping pace with how our community actually functions today,” said Matthew Goudy, Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Lacombe. “Student travel patterns have changed over time, and Council agreed it was important to ensure our bylaws reflect when children are truly present and most vulnerable. This is a practical, proactive step to support community safety.”

The review was initiated after Terrace Ridge School raised concerns about students arriving before existing school-zone hours were in effect. Administration also identified similar safety considerations near playgrounds, walking routes, and activity areas throughout the city.

From an enforcement perspective, the changes bring greater clarity and consistency for motorists.

“Clear, consistent zone hours make a real difference for driver awareness and compliance,” said Jason Dobirstein, Chief of Police, Lacombe Police Service. “These updated times better match when children are walking, cycling, and crossing roads. Our goal is always prevention first - slowing traffic during the times it matters most.”

Approximately 145 signs across Lacombe will be updated using reflective overlays or minor modifications. The work will be completed within the existing signage operating budget and will not result in ongoing costs.

The City of Lacombe and the Lacombe Police Service will roll out a public education campaign through local newspapers, radio, social media, and other communication channels to ensure residents are aware of the updated zone hours before enforcement begins.

A map of all designated school and playground zones is available on the City of Lacombe website.

For more information, visit www.lacombe.ca or follow the City of Lacombe on social media.

For additional information, contact:

Doug Halldorson
Director of Operation Services
(403)782-1280
dhalldorson@lacombe.ca

Bryan Zens
Staff Sergeant
Lacombe Police
(403)782-3279
bzens@lacombe.ca