The state Senate approved a five-year pilot program for speed cameras on Roosevelt Boulevard.
Speed cameras may soon be coming to Roosevelt Boulevard.
Last week, the state Senate passed a bill that would create a five-year pilot program for the implementation of cameras along the Boulevard from 9th Street in Hunting Park to the Bucks County line.
The General Assembly previously approved the measure, and it was awaiting Gov. Tom Wolf’s signature as of Tuesday.
Drivers caught on camera travelling at least 11 mph over the speed limit would be issued a ticket of up to $150, according to the legislation. The bill calls for a 30-day grace period after the cameras are installed, during which violators will receive a written warning.
The speed limit on the Boulevard in the Northeast varies from 40 to 45 mph.
If the measure is finalized, signs will be placed near the cameras and at two-mile intervals along the entire stretch. The speed cameras would also be installed in active work zones on federal highways and the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
The program would be managed by the Philadelphia Parking Authority. Violators will not be charged with a crime or receive points on their driving records.
In addition to Wolf’s signature, the bill requires City Council to approve an ordinance for it to go into effect.
Advocates for traffic safety and several local politicians heralded the bill, which passed 47–1 in the Senate. The Boulevard has long been considered one of the most dangerous roads in the area, and some even rate it as one of the worst in the country.
“We need something innovative to change driver behavior along Roosevelt Boulevard and through work zones,” said state Rep. John Taylor, a supporter of the bill and chairman of the House Transportation Committee. “The bill will certainly do that. This is a new tool for enforcing existing laws.”
State Rep. Jared Solomon in a statement referenced statistics showing that 11 people have died so far this year in crashes on the Boulevard.
“This is unacceptable,” Solomon said. “By passing this bill people are saying ‘enough’ and demanding a safer Roosevelt Boulevard.”
The speed cameras would be in addition to red light cameras currently installed at nine intersections along the Boulevard. Those cameras were first installed in 2005. ••
Jack Tomczuk can be reached at jtomczuk@newspapermediagroup.com
