It's all about safety on the streets of Anne Arundel County as the local police department rolls out a new tool aimed at encouraging motorists to ease off the gas pedal. Announced by the Anne Arundel County Police, Portable Camera Units (PCUs) are the latest mechanisms to aid in the enforcement of speed limits, especially around school zones and residential areas. The initiative, referred to as the Automated Traffic Enforcement Speed Program, is part of a broader attempt to reduce the number of traffic-related deaths and serious injuries throughout the county.
The introduction of PCUs was heralded by County Executive Steuart Pittman who said, "The Automated Traffic Enforcement Speed Program is both data-driven and community-driven," according to the Anne Arundel County. The need to quickly implement the new speed enforcement tools was driven by community feedback, reflecting a clear concern for the safety of neighborhoods and the well-being of children near schools. Initially, residents can expect to see up to 40 PCUs installed in various locations, with phased installations beginning in school zones.
Marked by clear signage, the first five locations for the PCUs include Wellham Avenue near Cromwell Elementary and Governor Stone Parkway by Shipley’s Choice Elementary, to name a few. As traffic violations are detected by these cameras, a review process involving Anne Arundel County police officers will determine whether a citation should indeed be issued. Following a 15-day grace period during which only warnings will be given, fines for validated speeding offenses will be set at $40 for motorists traveling at least 12 mph over the speed limit.
Underlining the critical nature of these measures, Anne Arundel County Police Chief Amal Awad stated in the Anne Arundel County press release, "Every day, residents call for safer streets, especially for children," Speed cameras, according to Chief Awad, serve as a vital instrument for persuading drivers to slow down to maintain safety. Post-warning period, the speed cameras will operate within regulated hours in school zones, from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. on weekdays, and round-the-clock in residential areas to ensure continuous enforcement.
Aligned with the county's Vision Zero commitment to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries, the Automated Traffic Enforcement Speed Program targets areas with higher incident rates of speed-related issues. Residents and motorists interested in obtaining more information, paying citations, or viewing the locations of active and up-and-coming PCUs can visit the County's dedicated page.
