Albany, OR city officials are anticipating a notable increase in traffic citations following the implementation of upgraded surveillance measures at several key intersections. This initiative aims to enhance traffic safety by closely monitoring driver behavior and enforcing compliance with traffic laws.
The decision to upgrade surveillance technology comes in response to rising concerns about traffic violations and safety hazards within Albany's intersections. By deploying advanced camera systems, authorities hope to better identify and deter reckless driving behaviors such as speeding, running red lights, and improper lane usage.
According to City Manager, John Doe, the upgraded surveillance will provide law enforcement with improved tools to address traffic issues effectively. The cameras will capture clear footage of vehicles committing infractions, enabling authorities to issue citations based on indisputable evidence.
The intersections chosen for this upgrade were selected based on traffic accident data and historical violation patterns. These locations have been identified as high-risk areas where increased surveillance could have a substantial impact on reducing accidents and improving overall traffic flow.
While the primary goal of this initiative is to enhance safety, it is expected that the upgraded surveillance will lead to a rise in traffic citations. Motorists are advised to exercise caution and adhere to traffic laws to avoid penalties resulting from the heightened monitoring.
City officials stress that the intention behind this effort is not revenue generation but rather a proactive measure to promote safer driving habits and reduce the incidence of traffic-related injuries and fatalities. The data collected from the surveillance will also be valuable in assessing and optimizing traffic management strategies in the future.
In summary, Albany residents can anticipate increased surveillance at key intersections aimed at improving traffic safety and reducing violations. This initiative underscores the city's commitment to enhancing road safety through innovative measures and responsible enforcement of traffic regulations.
The intersection of southeast Queen Avenue and southeast Geary Street has had red light enforcement cameras for years, but at a City Council meeting in December 2023, Albany City Councilors approved to negotiate a new contract with Verra Mobility.
The expanded photo enforcement program includes the addition of speed enforcement to the photo red light camera systems installed at Queen Avenue and Geary Street, as well as three additional photo speed and red light camera systems installed at northwest North Albany Road and Thornton Lake Drive, southwest Queen Avenue and southwest Elm Street, and southeast Santiam Road and southeast Geary Street. The ultimate goal, city officials said, is to change dangerous driving behaviors.