Providence, RI: Mayor Elorza, Commissioner Paré and Colonel Clements announce the deployment of Portable Camera Unit (PCU) speed cameras throughout Providence, specifically in school zones, to provide increased public safety measures for both pedestrians and drivers.
“Ultimately this is about keeping families safe, especially in areas with many children around,” said Mayor Jorge Elorza. “Tragedies can be prevented with innovative solutions and that’s exactly what these cameras do.”
If a vehicle is determined by the PCU to be operating 10 or more miles over the speed limit, a violation will automatically be issued. The violation will then be reviewed by Providence Police Officers and Conduent, an outside partner who manages and maintains the cameras. Once the violation is reviewed for accuracy and the information is verified, it is then mailed to the offender for payment. The first and each subsequent fine is $95.00. Visible signage has been placed in the areas where the cameras are stationed to alert drivers that the PCU’s are operating.
“Public safety is a priority for our neighborhoods and our children. This initiative will make our city safer and raise the quality of life for all,” said Councilman John J. Igliozzi, who helped sponsor this initiative in his role as Chair of Finance.
The PCU’s are currently operating on Mount Pleasant Avenue at Mount Pleasant High School, Thurbers Avenue between Eddy Street and Prairie Avenue, Charles Street between Silver Spring Street and Branch Avenue, Daniel Avenue between Harlam Street and Ethan Street and Peace Street between Elmwood Avenue and Bucklin Street.
Eventually, the city will operate with a total of 15 cameras that will rotate throughout problematic areas with traffic and speed concerns.
“As public safety officials, we will utilize any and all resources necessary to provide innovative safety measures for the entire Providence community,” said Public Safety Commissioner Steven M. Paré. “Children walking to school or from a bus stop should not be put in harm’s way by a motor vehicle that is being operated recklessly. As always, drivers are urged to obey the speed limit on every street in our city, and these cameras will hold those accountable who refuse to do so.”