ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - Albany officials are considering reviving a red-light camera program aimed at reducing violations at busy intersections.

City commissioners discussed a proposed automated enforcement plan that would install cameras at 12 intersections. The proposal follows a RedSpeed study that documented nearly 4,000 potential red-light violations in a single day at six Albany intersections. Violators would face a $70 civil fine.

Albany had a red-light camera program about 20 years ago, but officials say it failed because of limited technology.

Police Chief Michael Persley says the findings point to a serious traffic safety problem in the city.

“We have a serious problem with people running red lights here in the community, said Persley. “And, you know, we even tell people, when your light turns green, you might want to pause for a second or two and look both ways just to make sure there isn’t someone who is not paying attention and may, you know, go right through the red light.”

Some community members say the cameras are long overdue.

“There’s many people around here that run red lights. I think it’s about time somebody caught it,” said Robert Breton, a community member.

Others aren’t convinced.

“I really believe they’re a waste of time, of the taxpayers’ dollars,” said Cory King, a community member. “I mean, this city has so many different needs for businesses to come in, and we’re putting money in cameras that are taking money away from the community.”

Under the proposal, drivers caught running a red light would receive a $70 citation. City officials say the program would be funded through citation revenue, with the money split between the city and the vendor. Albany’s portion would be used for public safety improvements.

“And again, let me say this, you know, we’re not trying to reach in people’s pocketbooks,” Persley said. “What we’re getting people to do is, listen, you need to slow down, especially at these intersections with these red lights, so that either you don’t hit somebody or someone doesn’t hit you.”

Commissioners are expected to vote on the proposal by the end of the month. If approved, APD says it would give the public a 30-day grace period before citations are issued.

Proposed red light camera locations:

• N. Westover Blvd & Nottingham Way
• Dawson Rd & Stuart Ave
• N. Slappey Blvd & Palmyra Rd
• S. Westover Blvd & Gillionville Rd
• S. Slappey Blvd & W. Oglethorpe Blvd
• W. Oglethorpe Blvd & S. Jefferson St
• S. Slappey Blvd & W. Oakridge Dr
• W. Oakridge Dr & Newton Rd
• E. Oakridge Dr & Radium Springs Rd
• E. Oglethorpe Blvd & S. Mock Rd
• E. Oglethorpe Blvd & Thornton Dr
• E. Oglethorpe Blvd & Rosebrier Dr

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