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Riverton staff propose delayed-red timing and optional intersection cameras after fatal signal runs; state law limits automated enforcement
Summary
Riverton staff presented options to improve safety at signalized intersections including installing camera systems for investigations (estimated $35,000–$40,000) and seeking delayed-red timing changes with UDOT and Salt Lake County; officials noted Utah law prevents using cameras for automated ticketing.
City engineering staff told the council on Sept. 16 that two near-term tools could be used to address red-light running and intersection safety: (1) installing intersection cameras primarily for post-incident investigation, and (2) implementing delayed-red timing at controlled intersections to create an all-red clearance interval.
Kevin (city engineering staff) told the council a camera installation covering major intersections would cost roughly $35,000–$40,000 to cover the set of intersections the city had identified. He and Police Chief said cameras would be useful "in investigations" to determine liability but cannot be used to automatically cite or ticket drivers under current Utah law; changing that would require state legislation.
On signal timing, staff said UDOT and Salt Lake County control many of the city's traffic signals and the city will request a meeting to explore a delayed-red or short all-red interval so there is a gap when both directions are red to permit intersections to clear. The mayor asked staff to meet with UDOT and the county; engineers confirmed the change would not require a local budget adjustment because timing changes are a scheduling/software configuration rather than new equipment. Staff said a pilot or small-number trial could help assess traffic impacts.
Council reaction: Council Member Perucci, citing recent fatal red-light runs in the city, supported trying delayed-red timing as a pilot despite potential marginal delays to some motorists. Council Member McDougall asked whether delayed timing imposes additional traffic congestion; staff said they would examine conceptual impacts and possible pilot locations. Police Chief said cameras and delayed-red timing "would be beneficial on both accounts" for investigations and safety.
Next steps: staff will meet with UDOT and the county to discuss delayed-red timing at county- and state-controlled intersections and will return with recommendations and potential pilot locations. A budget adjustment would only be necessary if the council decides to purchase and deploy the camera systems.
