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E-mail This StoryCameras will soon be placed at selected traffic intersections as the city of Mesquite joins the growing list of municipalities participating in red-light traffic enforcement programs.
The Mesquite City Council approved an ordinance and contract permitting the use of photographic red-light enforcement Monday. The decision is part of the city’s initiative to make drivers, cyclists and pedestrians safer on city streets.
Neighboring Garland was a leader in the red-light enforcement program. Rowlett also has them, as do most urban municipalities throughout the state.
A contract was granted with REDFLEX Traffic Systems, Inc. to operate red-light cameras within Mesquite. Research will be conducted during the winter to identify the best places to put the cameras. Data collected will identify intersections with the highest number of red-light runners and accidents attributed to red light running.
Proponents of red-light cameras, like the city of Garland, indicate the cameras help reduce occurrences of motorists running red lights and in turn make streets safer.
The city of Mesquite program will begin with an estimated four to six cameras expected to go online Jan. 2, 2008. Warnings will be communicated during January 2008 and Feb. 1, 2008, citations will includes fines beginning at $75. Tickets will be sent in the mail to the registered vehicle owner in both English and Spanish. There will be both mail-in and on-line payment options.
Previous city traffic safety initiatives in Mesquite include retiming and synchronizing of traffic signals, intersection reconfiguration, street restructuring and the implementation of a 25 mph residential speed limit.
Earlier this year, Allstate Insurance rated Mesquite as the third safest city to drive in the entire region.
