Automated speed enforcement subject of rally
A group known as PA Vision Zero descended on the Statehouse this week to urge the PA House to advance Senate Bill 172 to provide for automated speed enforcement in highway work zones, along with one of Philadelphia’s most dangerous roads, Roosevelt Boulevard.
The highway construction industry, PHIA and bicycle and pedestrian advocates have tried for several years to persuade lawmakers to implement a system similar to what Maryland put in place several years ago. Those who exceed work zone speed limits by 11 miles per hour or more have their license plate photographed and receive notice of a fine in the mail.
When the Maryland program began, 7 percent of drivers were traveling at least that fast through work zones. Once the program gained awareness, that number dropped to less than 1 percent.
“There’s absolutely no question that automated speed enforcement reduces speeding in work zones,” said PHIA Managing Director Jason Wagner. “It’s also evident that a majority of legislators support the concept. We hope the House will take up the measure and work out their differences with the version that passed overwhelmingly in the Senate.”
