by Colorado Lawmakers Consider Allowing Speed Cameras on Interstate Highways
Driving in Colorado can be an exhilarating experience, but the speeds sometimes reached by drivers on the highways are as impressive as the mountain views. Now, state lawmakers may allow cities to install speed cameras on these roads.
House Bill 26-1071, introduced this week by Republican Tisha Mauro, aims to change the current state law that prohibits municipalities from using photo radar on interstate highways. If passed, cities, counties, and towns would gain the right to install automatic speed cameras on sections of interstates passing through their jurisdiction.
The initiative emerged after the city of Wheat Ridge attempted last summer to install a speed camera on a section of Interstate 70 between the Wadsworth Boulevard and 32nd Avenue exits. Wheat Ridge police representatives claim that a disproportionately large number of accidents occur on this section of the highway, significantly draining the department’s resources.
Why the State Previously Denied the Request
At that time, the state rejected the request, citing the existing ban on the use of photo radar on interstate roads. Wheat Ridge Police spokesperson Alex Rose noted in a comment for 9 News that investigating every accident on this section falls entirely on the department and seriously depletes its resources.
When we deal with an accident there, we handle the entire investigation, and it’s a really big drain on our department’s resources.
Supporters’ Arguments and Critics’ Concerns
Supporters of the idea argue that the cameras aim not so much at punishment as at changing driver behavior. Rose cited the example of two cameras already operating on city streets, including near one of the schools. After their installation in Wheat Ridge, a significant decrease in the number of speeding tickets in these zones was recorded.
However, critics warn of a potential increase in fine revenue. Since last June, the two existing cameras in Wheat Ridge have generated approximately $208,000 in revenue. Expanding the system to a busy highway like I-70 could significantly increase this amount. This highway is very intense in this area.
Many drivers who regularly use this section, including I-70, I-25, and other highways, note a trend of high-speed traffic. If lawmakers achieve their goal, drivers will have no choice but to slow down or pay fines.
Road safety has always been a priority, especially in areas with high accident rates. The experience of other jurisdictions where similar systems are already in place shows that they can contribute to reducing the number of accidents. However, it is important to find a balance between safety and fairness so that the measures are not perceived solely as a means of replenishing the budget. The success of such an initiative will largely depend on the transparency of using the funds obtained from fines and directing them specifically towards improving road safety infrastructure.
