Canton Mulls Speed Cameras On Local Roads

CANTON, CT — In the town's ongoing quest to crack down on traffic scofflaws and improve pedestrian/motorist safety, local leaders are mulling plans to put eyes in the skies.

The Canton Board of Selectmen last week heard a brief update from Canton First Selectman Kevin Witkos on early proposals to install traffic cameras in Canton that would detect speeders, traffic light/sign violations, and reckless drivers.

This could lead to fines and citations for motorists violating the rules of the road, according to officials.

Witkos said he, Selectperson Elizabeth Corkum Winsor, Canton Chief Administrative Officer Robert Skinner, and Canton Police Chief Christopher Arciero met with a representative of a company that provides the installation and services for the cameras.

Generally, towns work with camera companies, which install and maintain the cameras at no cost to the town.

The company, Witkos said, then takes in a percentage of the fines issued with the town getting a remaining percentage.

Corkum Winsor said about 90 percent of camera-recommended fines are issued and become real fines to violators.

Skinner said a town-hired consultant is working out details of the traffic camera plan and a new ordinance to install them would have to be approved by selectmen.

A traffic camera consultant is expected to show up at a future selectmen meeting, with the Canton Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Committee expected to attend.

Selectmen agreed by consensus on Feb. 14 to host a presentation at a future meeting. The next Canton Board of Selectmen meeting is Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. at Canton Town Hall.

The Town of West Hartford is implementing a similar program this year for traffic cameras to be installed as a monitoring/enforcement tool for law enforcement.

For the minutes of the Feb. 14 Canton Board of Selectmen meeting, click on this link.

From Dec. 4, 2023: 'West Hartford PD To Catch Speeders Via Cameras'