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Albany officials report that cameras installed in school zones to curb speeding have proven effective. Since their activation, approximately 189,000 tickets have been issued, with 124,000 paid, generating $6.7 million in revenue. Of this, 60% goes to the camera company, while the remainder supports city services and helps maintain low property taxes.
The number of accidents in and around school zones has decreased, contributing to improved traffic safety. The city implemented a new 25 mph speed limit at the start of the year, which, along with the cameras, has led to a drop in traffic crashes and injuries. According to Times Union, Albany police data shows a significant reduction in crashes involving injuries compared to previous years.
The school zone camera program, launched in October 2024, covers 20 zones and is part of a five-year pilot. Cameras are active during school hours and issue $50 tickets to drivers exceeding the 20 mph limit by more than 10 mph.
Mayor Kathy Sheehan and other city officials attribute the decrease in accidents to the combination of speed cameras and the reduced speed limit. They are part of a broader Vision Zero study to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries in the region. The city's efforts have been positively received, with residents noticing slower driving speeds and improved road safety.