IN WHAT COULD be the start of a countywide program, two sets of solar-powered radar speed signs designed to slow down traffic are already working in Lacey and Jackson townships, with a third nearly ready in Brick Township.

The automated signs display the speed of passing traffic and can reduce average speeds by at least 10 mph, said Ocean County Freeholder John P. Kelly.

“We’re using the latest technology to remind motorists that they are driving on roads that have a large number of pedestrians,” Kelly said. “Hopefully, this simple reminder will help keep motorists, walkers and bicyclists safe.”

The signs are completely powered by a solar panel and require very little maintenance.

When a vehicle approaches, the digital display shows its speed directly below a traditional printed sign displaying the posted speed limit.

Kelly, who is liaison to the Ocean County Engineer’s Office, said the signs are intended only to caution drivers and will not be used by law enforcement to issue summonses.

“We are going to encourage municipalities and school districts to consider purchasing their own signs through an interlocal agreement with the county,” Kelly said.

A set of signs cost about $13,000, plus installation costs.

Two signs were installed on Freehold Road in Jackson Township. Another set has been placed on Western Boulevard, near the Mill Pond and Cedar Creek elementary schools in Lacey Township. A third set will be turned on early this month on Princeton Avenue near Midstreams Road in Brick Township.

Freeholder James F. Lacey said the automated signs are easily moved and may stay in one location for as long as a year.

“Generally, these signs are not meant to be permanent,” said Lacey, who is liaison to the Ocean County Road Department. “We will likely move them to other areas with a large amount of pedestrian traffic.”

The county may also expand the effort, adding as many as six sets of signs per year.

“We really can’t cover every school zone and pedestrian area in the county,” Lacey said. “We’ll look to our towns to help purchase and install the system at locations they choose.”

The county is also using grant money from the state Partnership in Safety to purchase two portable data collectors that can be used to track traffic information and determine where the solar-powered signs could be best utilized.

“We’ll likely formulate a priority list so the signs can be placed where they are needed the most,” Lacey said.

Kelly said the solar operation means that the radar displays are both economical and fit in with the county’s “going green” effort.