- Phoenix activates 17 cameras for the first time since 2019.
- Tickets begin March 25 after a 30-day warning period.
- School zones trigger citations at just 5 mph over the limit.
There are 17 new speed cameras live and capturing footage in Phoenix. This is the first time the city has allowed them to run since 2019, and it happens as part of a $10 million safety initiative. For now, the photos captured will only issue warnings, but that all ends on March 25. Here’s what drivers in the area should know.
Nine of the cameras are permanently mounted along major arterial roads identified through crash data as “high-risk.” City officials say that these areas have a history of speed-related crashes, including serious injuries and fatalities. Eight other cameras will rotate weekly through different school zones.
More: Arizona Police Tickets Numerous Drivers For Left-Lane Camping
According to ABC 15, drivers caught speeding will get a written warning by mail through March 24. Starting on March 25, citations begin. On everyday roads, the cameras will photograph and cite anyone going 11 mph or more above the posted speed limit.
Higher Penalties In School Zones
In school zones, that threshold for speeding drops to just five mph over the limit. Notably, Phoenix schools typically have a 15 mph limit, so, in that case, anything above 20 mph would be worthy of a ticket.
Fines begin at around $250, though the total can go up depending on speed and if the violation happened in a school zone. Importantly, these are mid-block cameras, meaning they won’t capture data at intersections. They won’t capture those who run red lights, but instead are positioned well back from them.
Future Considerations
According to Phoenix Police, speeding is one of the department’s most common complaints. Staffing shortages have also played a role in the return of automated enforcement, with officials saying the cameras allow officers to focus on higher-priority calls. Still, not everyone is stoked about the move, and the cameras might not last in the end.
Lawmakers are advancing SCR 1004, a measure that would allow residents to vote on whether photo traffic enforcement should be allowed anywhere in Arizona. Unlike standard legislation, the proposal wouldn’t require the governor’s signature if it passes, according to AZ Family. The Mesa ticket scandal is part of the impetus for that measure.
Permanent Camera Locations:
- Thunderbird Road: 35th Avenue to Interstate 17
- 32nd Street: Greenway Parkway to Bell Road
- Thunderbird Road: Interstate 17 to 19th Avenue
- 7th Street: Thomas Road to Indian School Road
- Indian School Road: 83rd Avenue to 75th Avenue
- Camelback Road: 24th Street to 32nd Street
- 51st Avenue: Van Buren Street to Interstate 10
- Baseline Road: 16th Street to 24th Street
- Bell Road: Interstate 17 to 19th Avenue
Lead image Google Maps