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County reviews automated speed-enforcement pilot: revenues, locations and community-service option
Summary
Public Works reported early results from the county’s camera speed-enforcement program, including citations issued, revenue to date, sign locations and a community-service alternative for people who cannot pay fines.
Bernalillo County Public Works presented an update Jan. 14 on the automated speed-enforcement program that began issuing citations in late September 2024.
Director of Operations and Maintenance Antonio Jaramillo said the program began with a 30-day warning period and the first citations were issued Sept. 25. Locations were selected using crash and speed data from the Mid-Region Council of Governments and law-enforcement input; existing camera sites include multiple South Valley corridors (Isleta, Bridge and other arterials) and additional locations in District 4 such as Paradise Boulevard, Golf Course Boulevard and future sites along Coors, NM-500 (Dennis Chavez Boulevard), Alameda and Tramway. A mobile trailer camera can be moved to other problem locations.
Public Works reported preliminary revenue and citation figures for September–November (December still being reconciled): the county received about $258,000 in revenue and the vendor’s share was reported separately; more than 30,000 citations were issued in the initial months and roughly 35,100 citations had been paid (presentation noted reconciliation in progress). The county reported paying its first state set-aside payment and listed program expenses including retired-officer reviewers and a program coordinator.
The program offers a community-service option in lieu of a $100 fine; Public Works said 237 requests for community service were received and about 230 service hours were completed using a county clean team (staff said they are expanding options to include animal-care facilities and community centers for people with mobility limitations). The county will use program revenue for traffic-safety projects, such as signal upgrades and other improvements identified by Public Works.
Commissioners flagged data, compliance and outreach issues. Staff said signs will remain in place for the life of cameras, and that the program aims to change driving behavior rather than generate revenue. Commissioners asked about unpaid citations and collection; staff said they will consider collection options after a 6- to 9‑month period and continue outreach and user-friendly payment options (online, phone, kiosk, mail).
