More Traffic Cam Enforcement in Gray's Budget

Proposal includes "speed-on-green" cameras

Despite a $172.1 million budget gap, D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray’s budget proposal did not include a tax hike. Instead, he wants $102.7 million in cuts and $69.4 million in revenue initiatives. The latter includes more of that traffic-camera enforcement that draws the ire of many motorists but is praised by residents tired of seeing cars speed through their neighborhoods.

The budget proposal anticipates $30.6 million additional revenue generated by $5.8 million investment in traffic cameras. That investment would include double-duty cameras -- red light cams that also clock drivers who speed through green lights -- and cameras that would work in tunnels, News4’s Tom Sherwood reported.

While these “traffic calming” cameras are designed to improve safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, those who argue the city is just trying to make an extra buck will note the $24.8 million net revenue projected in the budget proposal.

Supporters argue, simply, obey the speed limit and traffic cameras. Spare D.C. residents a tax increase by letting traffic violators contribute to the budget gap.

Click here for a complete list of speed cameras and here for a list of red-light cameras.

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