Cameras To Enforce Speed In PA Work Zones

PENNSYLVANIA — Authorities in Pennsylvania are engaging a new tool in an effort to reduce speeding in work zones.

The Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement program will utilize cameras to automatically monitor for speeding in areas under construction. The new program goes into effect next week with the launch of a 60-day pilot period.

Officials hope the program helps change driver behavior

"(The program) isn't about issuing violations, it's about saving lives," PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards said, citing the 23 deaths and 1,804 crashes that occurred in Pennsylvania work zones in 2018.

Automated devices mounted to vehicles in work zones will monitor for motorists exceeding posted limits by 11 miles per hour or more, officials said. The systems will only be operational in active work zones.

PennDOT said that during the trial period, no violations will be issued. The program will initially focus on interstates and other limited access work zones, before expanding to roads around the state.

A full roll-out is expected in 2020. Once that happens, violations will begin with a warning letter for the first offense, a $75 fine for the second, and a $150 fine for the third and subsequent offenses. No driver's license points will be assessed.

The Pennsylvania State Police and Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission are partnering with PennDOT on the program.