District 1 City Councilmember Rob Saka shared news about new legislation regarding traffic safety cameras.

On April 15, the Transportation Committee met related to important legislation authorizing the expansion and new deployment of automated traffic safety cameras. In light of changes to Washington state law in 2024, the City drafted legislation to comply with state law and began the process of deploying this important camera technology for those neighborhoods that were asking for it. This legislation builds on the actions our Council has taken to support camera technology and on my efforts to support this crucial technology.  

Used responsibly, automated traffic safety cameras can be a force multiplier, helping reduce lawlessness in our community. They will be especially impactful for the Alki – Harbor Avenue neighborhood as part of a broader suite of policy and design solutions to help reduce crime such as unlawful speed racing. 

To allow the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) to start spending and deploying the $1.18 million in previously appropriated funding for these non-school speed cameras, the Committee also heard a report on lifting the budget proviso related to automated traffic safety cameras. I led this proviso budget action during our Fall 2024 budget session when Council appropriated resources for this vital road safety investment, ensuring that 1) this money would be set aside specifically for non-school zone traffic safety cameras in hot spot areas like Alki/Harbor Ave, and 2) SDOT would work collaboratively with Council on the deployment of this important technology.