D.C. Could Expand Traffic Camera Program

Luz Lazo reports on D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser's plan to expand the District's automated traffic enforcement program in an effort to improve traffic safety. "Bowser’s pitch to expand the traffic camera program comes as the city is experiencing a rise in severe traffic crashes resulting in deaths and injuries. Forty people were killed in traffic collisions in 2021, the most since 2007, and nine people have died this year — one more than at this time last year."

"Bowser (D) is proposing a large-scale modernization and expansion of the city’s automated enforcement program, promising to more than triple the number of traffic cameras that issue fines by the end of next year." The proposal would add 170 new speed cameras in addition to dozens of others that catch drivers running red lights and stop signs and other violations. "Forty new full-time positions would be added at DDOT to oversee the increased volume of tickets that would accompany the expansion, according to budget documents."

Critics of automated enforcement say it's an excuse for the city to generate extra revenue at the expense of motorists. But "The city, owed about $500 million in unpaid parking and traffic fines, has few mechanisms to ensure offenders face consequences," notes Luz, adding that "Bowser’s plan also calls for more resources for the city’s towing and booting program."

The D.C. Council will review the proposed budget for the program on April 4.