Active Transportation Alliance applauds Chicago City Council for passing speed camera ordinance

As an ardent supporter of effective traffic enforcement measures, the Active Transportation Alliance extends a “thank you” to the alderman who voted “yes” today on Chicago’s speed camera ordinance.

“Speeding drivers make roadways unsafe for vehicle passengers, cyclists, and everyone who uses our sidewalks and parks,” said Ron Burke, executive director of the Active Transportation Alliance. “Automated speed enforcement allowed under this ordinance will help keep cars within the legal speed limit, save lives and make our neighborhoods more walkable and bike-friendly.”

That speed cameras reduce speeding and crashes is a commonsense conclusion backed by research. An analysis of more than 90 studies assessing speed enforcement cameras in the Journal of the Transportation Research Board found an average injury crash reduction of 20 to 25 percent, with more effective programs reducing injuries from crashes by more than 50 percent.

Burke said cameras are one of many tools in the toolbox to slow down speeders, along with speed bumps, portable speed signs, education and enforcement. A comprehensive approach, he said, is what’s needed to combat this pervasive problem.

Read more on the Active Transportation Alliance’s blog.

The Active Transportation Alliance is a non-profit, member-based advocacy organization that works to make bicycling, walking and public transit so safe, convenient and fun that we will achieve a significant shift from environmentally harmful, sedentary travel to clean, active travel. The organization builds a movement around active transportation, encourages physical activity, increases safety and builds a world-class transportation network. The Active Transportation Alliance is North America’s largest transportation advocacy organization, supported by more than 6,000 members, 1,000 volunteers and 40 full-time staff. For more information on the Active Transportation Alliance, visit www.activetrans.org or call 312.427.3325.