Rep. Foncello Questions Cost to Implement Recommendations of Vision Zero Council

Hartford– State Representative Martin Foncello (R-107) voted against HB 5917: An Act Implementing the Recommendations of the Vision Zero Council. Foncello opposed the potential cost to municipalities opting to install red light or speed cameras. The Department of Transportation will issue guidelines to municipalities to develop a plan for automated traffic enforcement safety devices.

“I support the Vision Zero goal of keeping communities safe for drivers and pedestrians, however the cost for a town to implement this type of camera system would be $100,000 or more depending on the capabilities of the system. The price of a ticket is up to $50, so it would take about 2,000 tickets to recover the cost of the camera system. There would also be annual maintenance costs of $5,000 to $10,000. Right now, this seems cost prohibitive,” said Foncello.

According to the bill, municipalities opting to install these cameras must hold a public hearing and the town’s legislative body would have to vote to approve implementation. The DOT must then approve the areas where the cameras are to be placed. Automated enforcement zones must be clearly marked. The revenue from fines, up to $50 on a first offense and $75 on subsequent violations, would go to municipalities and must be used for traffic-related expenses.

“Beyond the cost to municipalities, I’m concerned about collection of the fines. The registered owner of the vehicle would get the ticket, not the driver,” added Foncello.

The bill was passed in the House on a vote of 104-46 and was sent to the Senate for further legislative action. 23 states currently have red light cameras.