Avondale, Arizona is stepping up its game against lead-foot drivers with a new photo enforcement program, aimed at putting the brakes on speeding and reckless driving. If you're zooming through Avondale after May 1, smile for the camera and say goodbye to your clean record — and possibly a chunk of your cash. The Avondale Police Department, in partnership with Verra Mobility, will use portable speed cameras to monitor the streets, primarily in areas with a history of speeding issues.
The program kicks off with a 30-day grace period, where those caught speeding will only receive a warning in their mailboxes. But don't get too comfortable, because starting day 31, fines will hit hard at $185 a pop. These penalties could escalate depending on how much you surpass the speed limit, and where you're caught doing so, according to Avondale's official announcement.
"The purpose of the program is to ensure the highest level of safety for our children, residents, and visitors, using tools that have been proven to reduce speeds and change driver behaviors," Avondale Police Chief Memo Espinoza detailed in a recent briefing. The cameras aren't just for show — they're a move to clamp down on daredevils who treat city streets like their personal speedways, especially around school zones, giving parents and residents a reason to breathe easier.
These high-tech eyes will be placed based on community complaint hotspots, surveyed areas, and known danger zones for speeding. The move isn't just a one-off but part of a wider commitment to resident safety and community well-being, said Chief Espinoza, "The safety and well-being of our residents is non-negotiable, and this initiative reflects our commitment to their protection." So when those cameras start snapping pictures next month, remember they're not looking for your good side — they're on a mission to save lives.
For anyone looking for more intel on this high-speed crackdown or other traffic-related questions, you can give the Avondale Police Department a ring at 623-333-7001 or visit their website. As for Verra Mobility, the Arizona-based tech outfit behind these gadgets, they're not new to the road safety rodeo. With a presence that spans the globe, their tech is all about making the streets smarter and safer.
