Monday, February 7, 2011

Reasons to Be Car Free in DC: MPD's All Seeing Eyes

More radar cameras, less speeding?
First, we thought they didn't work. Now, we think they do. Red light and speeding cameras are here to stay, for better or for worse. 

And now, not only are District leaders expanding the number of cameras, but adding more ticketable offenses. A year from now --when the new deployment is set to be complete-- Metro Police Department cameras will be able to record infractions such as blocking the box at intersections as well as failure to yield to pedestrians. 

I like the idea of increased enforcement of aggressive drivers in regards to pedestrians, but I'm not sure I like the idea of having cameras everywhere to catch every driver who is a few miles above the speed limit or who tried their best, but gets caught in the intersection at a light. There are some terrible drivers in the DC region, no doubt. But, at some point the enforcement is what it is. Put the cameras in the trouble spots and keep attacking the problem from other angles; like traffic calming measures, better lighting and markings at intersections and installing bulb outs for pedestrians. 

Here is a current list of red light camera locations in the District. And here's the current list of photo radar (speeding) camera locations in the District. Drive safely, and slow down!