Speed Cameras Could Be Coming to CT Highways — What To Know

CONNECTICUT — Speed cameras could soon be used on highways across Connecticut under a new proposal advanced by state lawmakers this week.

The legislature's Transportation Committee unanimously approved a bill that would allow the Department of Transportation to launch a pilot program placing cameras on limited-access highways, like I-95, I-84 and the Merritt Parkway.

The measure aims to reduce speeding and improve safety on some of the state's busiest roadways, where officials say dangerous driving has become a growing concern.

The idea of speed cameras on highways has sparked both support and concern, and Patch readers can weigh in through a survey at the end of this story.

"This is about safety," Transportation Committee co-chair Sen. Christine Cohen said during the committee discussion. "We have too many people speeding on our highways, recklessly driving and taking other people's lives, and something needs to be done."

Under the proposal, cameras would be installed in locations identified by DOT based on speeding patterns and crash history. The program would run on a trial basis, allowing officials to evaluate the technology's effectiveness before expanding it further.

Drivers caught traveling 15 miles per hour or more over the speed limit could face fines starting at $75 for a first violation and $200 for each subsequent violation.

Lawmakers said the effort builds on previous testing of speed cameras in highway work zones, where data showed reductions in vehicle speeds and improved driver behavior.

"Speed cameras are an effective deterrent," Cohen said.

If approved by the full legislature, the pilot program would be implemented by DOT in coordination with state public safety officials.

What do you think? Patch is asking readers how they feel about highway safety and the potential use of speed cameras in Connecticut. Take our short survey below and share your thoughts. We’ll publish the results here in about a week.