Salem, OR – Starting Thursday, drivers passing through two busy intersections in south Salem will face expanded monitoring, as a pair of red light and speed cameras are set to capture traffic violations in both directions. This move is part of a broader effort by local authorities to improve road safety and reduce accidents at high-risk areas.
The cameras, which have already been operational in a limited capacity, will now snap photos of vehicles running red lights or exceeding speed limits in both directions of travel. Officials say that this expansion is designed to enhance enforcement and act as a deterrent to unsafe driving behavior.
“By covering both directions, we aim to increase compliance and reduce the likelihood of collisions at these intersections,” said a spokesperson from the Salem Police Department. “The goal is always to ensure the safety of both drivers and pedestrians.”
The two intersections in question have been flagged as frequent locations for accidents and traffic violations. With this expansion, the city hopes to address growing concerns over speeding and red-light running, particularly in areas where these violations have contributed to crashes.
The use of automated traffic enforcement technology, including red light and speed cameras, has been a contentious issue in some parts of the country. However, Salem city officials have emphasized that the primary objective is public safety. They argue that these cameras serve as an effective tool in reducing dangerous driving behavior without the need for additional patrol officers at the scene.
This expansion marks a new chapter in Salem’s ongoing efforts to leverage technology for traffic safety. In the coming weeks, the city will continue to monitor the effectiveness of the cameras and consider further expansions if deemed necessary.
