In a significant move aimed at improving road safety, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is set to deploy speed enforcement cameras in key construction zones starting this March. The initiative comes as part of a broader effort to reduce accidents and fatalities on highways undergoing expansion. CDOT officials have emphasized that the primary goal is not to generate revenue but to ensure safer travel conditions for motorists. Preliminary data reveals alarming statistics, with 31 deaths and 43 serious injuries reported from work-zone-related crashes across the state in 2024. The department hopes that this new measure will serve as a deterrent and significantly enhance road safety.

Details of the Speed Camera Initiative

In the picturesque setting of Floyd Hill, where Interstate 70 is currently being expanded, CDOT plans to introduce speed enforcement cameras. This decision follows recent amendments to state laws, allowing for an extended use of these devices. The cameras are not only intended to monitor speeding but also to penalize drivers who weave in and out of toll lanes. CDOT has allocated up to $5 million for a pilot program, which may lead to the installation of speed cameras in four additional work zones by year's end. CDOT Chief Engineer Keith Stefanik assured the state Transportation Commission that this initiative is solely focused on safety, stating, "We will not break even on this for many years."

State regulations mandate that each new camera must be announced on the responsible agency’s website at least 30 days before installation. Once operational, the cameras will issue warnings to speeding drivers for an initial period of no less than 30 days, though CDOT intends to extend this grace period. The exact amount of fines has yet to be determined, but they are expected to be implemented later this year. CDOT staff highlighted the potential of this technology to transform road safety practices, encouraging local jurisdictions to adopt similar measures.

The introduction of speed cameras in construction zones represents a proactive approach to addressing the growing concern over work-zone safety. By leveraging technology, CDOT aims to create a safer environment for both workers and drivers. As the program unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor its impact and evaluate whether it achieves its intended goals. Ultimately, the success of this initiative could set a precedent for future road safety strategies across the state and beyond.