Jun 18, 2009 11:16 pm US/Eastern
More Red Light Cameras Coming To Baltimore Area
BALTIMORE (WJZ) ―
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Red light cameras have stirred up controversy since the first one went up a decade ago, and now word that more will be added.
CBS
Red light cameras have stirred up controversy since the first one went up a decade ago.
Kai Jackson explains why the new cameras are being added.
The sight of red light cameras often make drivers cringe.
Police say if the devices make drivers slow down and make drivers stop at red lights, then they've done their job.
Red light cameras strategically placed, at major intersections around the state of Maryland.
They snap a picture of your license plate, when a driver runs a red light.
Now some Maryland counties are adding more.
"I think they stink", said Amy Stlukin of Dulaney Valley when asked about red light cameras.
Slutkin also says she doesn't agree that the cameras are put up as a safety measure.
Baltimore County has eight red light cameras now, and plans to add four more.
The current eight cameras issue about 60 tickets a month, and generate $54,000 a year.
It cost $620,900 dollars to install them in 1999.
"For law enforcement it's about public safety. It's about reducing injuries to children, and adults, and the severity of those injuries," said Jim Johnson, Baltimore County Police Chief.
Howard County will add two red light cameras bring it's total to 26.
"I don't think it's a very good idea since I have a $100 ticket from Washington, DC right now," said Jerry Davis of Essex.
In Baltimore County there are also plans to install speed cameras.
The General Assembly okayed the use of them during the most recent legislative session.
Speed cameras would be in place in school and construction zones among other places.
"What we're looking at right now first of all is placement of these cameras within a half mile of school zones. We are looking at places like Montgomery County and we're looking at jurisdictions all across the nation," adds Chief Johnson.
Baltimore City had six red light cameras when they were installed in 1999, today there are 79.
Baltimore County is still working to determine where the new speed cameras will be located.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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