On October 23, Governor Kathy Hochul signed a bill to expand New York State’s red-light camera program, setting in motion the largest expansion of camera coverage in New York City’s history. This initiative will increase the current number of cameras from 150 to 600.
The legislation, passed by the state Senate this June, grants the Department of Transportation (DOT) the authority to increase the number of red-light cameras and extend the time frame for capturing traffic violations until December 1, 2027.
New York City’s red-light camera program dates back to 1994 when state lawmakers approved a series of measures permitting the installation of cameras at 150 intersections across the city. These laws were initially set to expire after 30 years, which will be at the end of this year.
Assemblymember Grace Lee emphasized the significance of this bill for busy areas like downtown Manhattan. She pointed out that critical intersections, such as the one at Canal Street and Lafayette Street in Chinatown, have already had red-light cameras installed. This location is known for heavy traffic and a high rate of accidents. According to data from the advocacy group Transportation Alternatives, Canal Street has been labeled as “Manhattan’s most dangerous stretch.” Just last week, a multi-vehicle accident occurred at this intersection during the night, resulting in six injuries.
Chen Tso-Chau, the executive director of the Manhattan Chinatown Business Improvement District (BID), noted that even when New York had only a few dozen cameras, the presence of cameras at intersections significantly improved traffic safety. “Each additional camera means an extra layer of protection,” he stated. He underscored the sobering reality that while hundreds may die each year in accidents, the number of injuries can reach tens of thousands, with many individuals left to live in wheelchairs due to such incidents. “If we can’t control the weight of the vehicles, we can at least control their speed, which helps ensure road safety,” he added.
In addition, Bill S.9504A/A.3120A raises the fines for illegal passing and violating school bus rules. For repeated offenders within three years, fines will increase from $1,000 to $1,500. Another bill, S760B/A402B, broadens the definition of reckless driving to include dangerous behaviors in parking lots. State Senator John Liu remarked that illegal street racing and tire-burning in parking lots have long troubled New Yorkers, and this legislation will empower law enforcement to crack down on those endangering public safety.
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