MnDOT Speed Cameras Are Going Up On I-35W, Highway 65

BURNSVILLE, MN — The Minnesota Department of Transportation will begin testing speed safety cameras at two work zones this summer, part of a pilot project aimed at cutting down on speeding-related crashes in highway construction areas.

The cameras will go up at two sites: on I-35W in Burnsville, north of the I-35W/I-35E split, and on Highway 65 between Cambridge and Braham, near Braham.

Orange signs will alert drivers entering both work zones that camera systems are in use.

Vehicles clocked traveling 10 mph or more over the posted work zone speed limit may have their registered owners sent a warning letter that includes the recorded speed, a photo of the license plate and information about work zone safety. The systems capture license plates only, not images of vehicle occupants.

No fines will be issued during this summer's pilot.

MnDOT says the goal is to test how well the camera systems work as a safety tool and to educate drivers before any future enforcement phase.

MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger said speeding in work zones is the top safety concern raised by road crews. Since 2021, Minnesota has recorded more than 11,000 work zone crashes, including 22 deaths and 609 injuries tied to speeding. Speeding was a factor in 38 percent of work zone fatalities statewide.

The pilot was authorized by the 2024 Minnesota Legislature to study whether speed safety cameras can reduce severe crashes in work zones, a method already used in other states. MnDOT has the option to expand testing to two additional work zones in 2027 or 2028.

Drivers can submit feedback on the cameras by emailing safetycameras.dot@state.mn.us or through a form on MnDOT's website.