The red-light camera program in Pembroke Pines has been controversial from the beginning, but now that Governor Crist decided to allow them, the city is shifting into high gear with this program. The state law was approved on April 27 and it will go into effect on July 1st. if the governor signs it. The cameras are meant to enforce traffic control signal violations.
Last Wednesday, Mayor Frank Ortis and the commissioners held a meeting where they voted to continue the red-light program by adding a few more cameras at intersections such as Pines Blvd. and Dykes Rd; Sheridan St. at NW 72nd Avenue; and Pines Blvd. and 155th Avenue. The mayor’s belief is that “The cameras save lives” and Pembroke Pines Police Chief Dan Giustino agrees with him by stating that “It is great for public safety.”
The company chosen by the city to implement the program is ATS (American Traffic Solutions). They will be in charge of adding the new cameras as directed by city ordinance.
Before the law goes into effect, the current fine is $125 and it is a code violation, not a traffic ticket with all its implications. Under the new law, fines will be $158. Cities and counties will receive $45 to $75 per infraction, depending on the road. The state will collect $70. The rest will go to trauma centers and the State Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund. This program is great for generating revenue for Pembroke Pines. The city has received more than $355,160 in fines and issued 4,029 violation notices since a camera went up at Pines Boulevard and 129th Avenue in March 2009. In all, Florida could reap more than $29 million in the first year the cameras are up, and as much as $95 million a year by 2014, state analysts say. Local governments could take in $10 million the first year and nearly $66 million by 2014.
There was a lawsuit filed by about fifty motorists that kept Pembroke Pines from expanding the program. The drivers who joined the suit complained that the city’s cameras violated their equal protection rights and there was no uniformity among cities to implement the legislature, therefore it was illegal. The case is still being processed at Broward Circuit Court but no hearing date has been scheduled.
Be careful when driving in Pembroke Pines as the $125 fine is going to increase soon if Governor Charlie Crist signs the bill. If you have any questions about this law you can contact me or read the legislature. And remember there will be at least two cameras on your way if you drive on Pines Blvd. from I-75 to Chapel Trail’s Main entrance.
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