Speeding and running red lights are leading causes of traffic accidents, contributing significantly to road hazards, injuries, and fatalities. In an effort to improve safety, Longmont has introduced automated speed and red-light cameras across specific areas of the city. These photo radar and enforcement systems aim to reduce accidents, enhance driver awareness, and promote safer driving habits. See our map of Colorado speed cameras and red light cameras.
What Are Speed and Red Light Cameras?
Automated speed cameras and red-light cameras are advanced traffic enforcement tools that capture violations through photo and video technology. When a vehicle exceeds the speed limit or runs a red light, the camera automatically takes a picture of the vehicle's license plate, providing valuable evidence to issue tickets to the driver.
In Longmont, these cameras are part of the Automated Vehicle Identification System (AVIS), which was approved by the municipal ordinance on November 19, 2024. The system utilizes four cameras as of now, with the possibility of expanding the number of cameras over time.
The Implementation Timeline and Warning Period
The 30-day warning period for the automated speed and red-light cameras began on Monday, April 28, 2025. This means that for the first month, no tickets will be issued, but drivers will receive warnings if they violate traffic laws within the camera zones. However, starting on Thursday, May 29, 2025, Longmont will begin issuing tickets for violations captured by these cameras.
What Is AVIS (Automated Vehicle Identification System)?
AVIS, as defined by Colorado Revised Statute (C.R.S.) 42-4-110.5, refers to an automated system used to detect traffic violations such as speeding and red-light running. The system automatically records violations by capturing images of the vehicle and its license plate. AVIS can be a mobile, temporary, or permanent system that helps enforce traffic regulations.
This technology is designed to improve road safety by reducing the risk of accidents, especially in high-traffic areas, school zones, and construction zones. The cameras help enforce speed limits and red-light rules without the need for human officers to be present at every violation, freeing up resources for other safety tasks.
Locations with Speed and Red Light Cameras
To ensure effective traffic monitoring and enforcement, Longmont has strategically placed automated cameras in high-traffic zones and areas with known safety concerns. If any of these locations become permanent, we will add them to our Colorado map. These locations include:
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Main Street or Highway 287
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Pace Street
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Ken Pratt Boulevard or Highway 119
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Hover Road (N. 95th Street)
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Airport Road (N. 87th Street)
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17th Avenue
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Mountain View Avenue
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11th Avenue
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9th Avenue
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3rd Avenue
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Pike Road
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21st Avenue
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23rd Avenue
In addition to these fixed locations, cameras may be relocated within the Longmont city limits to address specific traffic safety needs. Always be aware of the posted signs in these areas, which will clearly indicate the presence of speed or red-light cameras.
How Drivers Are Informed of Camera Locations
To ensure that drivers are aware of these enforcement systems, Longmont has made it a priority to post clear signs indicating the presence of automated speed cameras and red-light cameras. These warning signs will help drivers remain cautious when approaching these monitored intersections or zones. It's important to always be vigilant about your speed, especially in areas known to have high traffic volumes or pedestrian activity.
The Benefits of Automated Traffic Enforcement
The installation of automated speed and red-light cameras is expected to have several positive impacts on Longmont’s road safety:
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Reduction in Traffic Accidents: By deterring speeding and red-light running, these cameras help to lower the number of accidents, particularly at high-risk intersections and school zones.
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Increased Driver Awareness: Drivers are more likely to obey speed limits and stop at red lights when they know automated enforcement is in place.
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Efficient Traffic Monitoring: Automated systems can cover multiple locations and operate 24/7, providing continuous monitoring and enforcement with minimal resource consumption.
What Happens If You Get Caught by a Camera?
If your vehicle is captured violating traffic laws, such as speeding or running a red light, the camera system will automatically generate a ticket with your vehicle's details. The ticket will be sent to the registered owner of the vehicle, and you will be required to pay the fine or contest the violation.
While tickets for speeding and red-light violations are common, the introduction of automated systems like AVIS helps ensure that enforcement is consistent, unbiased, and efficient, helping to foster a safer driving environment for everyone.
Conclusion: Stay Alert, Stay Safe
As Longmont implements its automated speed and red-light camera system, it's essential for drivers to remain vigilant and obey posted speed limits and traffic signals. With the 30-day warning period underway, drivers have a final opportunity to adjust their driving habits before actual fines are issued. By adhering to traffic laws and respecting the new automated enforcement systems, you can help ensure a safer and more orderly road environment for all.
Make sure to familiarize yourself with the locations of these cameras and be mindful of the signs marking these areas. Safe driving is everyone's responsibility, and these new systems will play a crucial role in keeping Longmont's roads safer for all residents and visitors.