Annapolis Council reviews legislation for expanded speed monitoring camera placements

In the heart of Annapolis, city officials gathered on March 12, 2025, to discuss a pressing issue that resonates with many residents: speeding on local roads. The Transportation Committee meeting, held in the familiar setting of city hall, focused on proposed legislation aimed at expanding the use of speed monitoring cameras beyond the current restrictions near school zones.

Alderman Standelmeyer, the sponsor of the legislation, emphasized the need for this change, citing persistent speeding problems on major arteries and even quiet side streets. "Street design changes are a longer and more expensive process," he noted, advocating for a simpler solution that could effectively alter the behavior of aggressive drivers. The proposed legislation would allow speed cameras in residential neighborhoods where speed limits are 35 miles per hour or lower, a move designed to enhance safety for pedestrians and residents alike.

Captain Amy Meggeth of the Annapolis Police Department supported the initiative, explaining that while the legislation would provide more flexibility in camera placement, it would not lead to immediate installations. "We will engage with the community and consider accident data and complaints before deciding where to place cameras," she assured the committee. Currently, the city operates five speed cameras, all located in school zones, but the potential for expansion could significantly increase their presence in areas where speeding is a concern.

The discussion also highlighted the challenges associated with managing speed camera citations. Each citation requires review by a police officer, which can divert resources from active patrols. Captain Meggeth pointed out that while speed cameras have proven effective in reducing speeds in certain areas, the workload associated with them must be carefully balanced with the need for police presence on the streets.

Committee members raised questions about the anticipated number of cameras that could be deployed if the legislation passes. Captain Meggeth indicated that any expansion would be gradual, focusing first on the most dangerous intersections and roads. The process would include a pilot period where no fines would be issued, allowing residents to adjust to the presence of cameras.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members were left contemplating the implications of this legislation. If enacted, it could pave the way for a safer Annapolis, where the threat of speeding is met with proactive measures, fostering a community where pedestrians and drivers can coexist more safely. The conversation around speed monitoring cameras is just one piece of a larger puzzle in the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and improve transportation infrastructure.