Your Stories Q&A: Speed cameras popping up in CNY construction zones

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — You ask, we answer!

Construction season is here, which means speed enforcement cameras are popping up around Central New York.

The Your Stories Team has been fielding questions about the cameras and how they’re being used.

Question: Are the speed enforcement cameras used outside of work zones?

According to the New York State Department of Transportation, the cameras are only used in construction or maintenance zones.

Question: Do workers have to be present in the work zone?

Yes. According to the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement Program’s website:

“Vehicle and Traffic Law 1180-e requires workers to be present and a sign(s) to be posted that the photo speed violation monitoring system is being used. To meet this requirement, the Speed Enforcement Contractor has Standard Operating Procedures they must adhere to. Part of those procedures are to confirm the presence of workers on site and to deploy the “Work Zone Photo Enforced” signs.”

Question: Any plans for the cameras to be used on I-690?

“There are not any construction projects planned along Interstate 690 this summer, however there is maintenance work planned along I-690 this season where automated speed enforcement units may be utilized,” NYSDOT said in an email to the YS Team.

Question: Does the state post where the speed cameras will be located?

Yes, at the bottom of Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement Program‘s website, you will find an attachment showing where the cameras will be placed for the current week.

Question: How much are the fines?

New York State posted the following information regarding fines associated with the speed enforcement cameras:

• First Violation: $50 fine
• Second Violation: $75 fine if within 18 months of first violation
• Third and Subsequent Violations: $100 fine if within 18 months of first violation

Question: How many violations have been handed out in Central New York this year?

“Between January 1 and June 1 of 2024 there were 1,828 notices of liability issued to vehicles observed traveling through NYSDOT work zones in Central New York. These figures do not include the New York State Thruway,” NYSDOT said in an email.

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