Greenbelt Speed Cameras Issue 177 Initial Warnings

Greenbelt's new speed cameras have caused 177 warning to be issued since they were deployed, Greenbelt Director of Community Development Celia Craze reported to City Council. But it is very early data and there have been some bugs, she added. 

Since their Sept. 28 deployment, the cameras have had aiming issues, the wrong speed was initially input into the Cherrywood Lane devices, and they have not always been operating, Craze told Council Tuesday. She advised not looking to the report, which covers the period from deployment until Oct. 5, as a good example of what the experience will be.

The warning period is up on Oct. 22, Craze said. She suggested the Council look for a first report a month later, one that will reflect all the cameras being operational and working during the prescribed hours, with any bugs hopefully worked out.

Citizens caught speeding on camera after the warning period is up will be subject to $40 tickets. Cameras are set to catch and automatically ticket drivers going 12 mph or more over speed limits on designated school zone roadways.

"They're already doing their job on Hanover Parkway and Mandan Road," Mayor Judith "J" Davis said, adding she has never seen people going down those roads more quietly.

"Well, the word is out. I'll tell you right now," said Councilmember Edward Putens.

Councilmember Silke Pope, who works at Springhill Lake Elementary School, agreed, saying that traffic is very calm on Edmonston Road in the mornings when she goes in.

Nine Greenbelt Police Department employees have successfully trained as camera operators and eight police officers have been approved to confirm violations, according to Craze.