Providence to install cameras to curb speeding in school zones

By John Krinjak

Email: jkrinjak@abc6.com

Twitter: @johnkrinjakABC6

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Providence City Council has approved a plan to add 15 speed cameras in high-traffic areas near school zones.

"When I’m driving in Providence around schools, I’ve seen people speeding through," said Maria Lako of Providence.

"I have two small children. We walk on the city streets every day and that poses a great risk for me and my family," said Marisa Beauchemin of Providence. 

Officials say the primary goal with these cameras is safety–not only for pedestrians and children, but also drivers.

"We don’t want to catch people speeding. We want to deter people from speeding in the first place," said Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza. 

The school cameras are in addition to 20 red light cameras the mayor hopes to have up and running as soon as possible.  

The Rhode Island ACLU is taking a stand on the issue, saying these types of cameras violate drivers’ right to due process and are simply not effective. 

"When law enforcement stops you, they tell you sir or ma’am, you were speeding or passed a red light. With the red light camera you are not aware that something happened. It is not fixing public safety if the issue is not being addressed right away," said Marcela Betancur. 

In addition to privacy concerns, the ACLU also sees this as just another way for the city to raise revenue. 

Residents welcome the change.

"It’ll be good to catch people who are speeding through school zones," said Beauchemin. 

"If that’s going to reduce the risk of people speeding and possibly hurting someone. I think that’s wonderful," said Lako.

The speeding cameras are set to be installed by the end of the year. 

© WLNE-TV / ABC6 2017