Drivers in Boynton Beach should be aware that the two red light cameras at Congress Avenue and Miner Road will switch from warning mode to ticketing mode tomorrow. Starting then, running a red light will result in a $158 fine, increasing to $264 if unpaid within 60 days, according to BocaNewsNow. This change is part of the city's Red-Light Camera Program, designed to improve road safety and reduce intersection crashes.
Boynton Beach currently monitors over 18 intersections with red light cameras. The program has led to a 35% reduction in injury and fatal crashes and a 10% drop in total crashes, according to Traffic Sgt. Chris Munro, as reported by the Palm Beach Post. However, the number of red light violations has increased, with nearly 1,000 more violations in the last year.
The locations for the cameras are selected based on crash data and high traffic volumes. Munro explained to Palm Beach Post, "We look at where the crashes are happening at the intersections, the volume of traffic going through them … the number of injury crashes or fatal crashes and make a determination based on that data."
From 2023 to 2024, 37,565 violation notices were issued, leading some locals to question the accuracy of the cameras and their potential role in generating revenue. Munro emphasized that the revenue goes toward traffic safety initiatives, stating, "If it was about revenue, we’d put them at every intersection. We’re identifying the problem areas that warrant it and are trying to reduce those numbers of the crashes based on the problems, not just blanket the entire city with the cameras to increase revenue," in the same report.
Despite mixed reactions, Boynton Beach officials plan to install three more cameras at the intersection of Woolbright Road and Seacrest Boulevard, although the activation date is still unknown.
