The ‘Burg is now officially the first city in the region to vote down the red-light cameras that have permeated intersections and frustrated drivers for almost 3 years.  Mayor Rick Kriseman has gone on record stating that whether or not the cameras were voted down at the council meeting the program would be done away with if it no longer "paid for itself," which experts predicted would happen by the fall.

Debate continues regarding whether or not drivers ticketed via the cameras are entitled to refunds. It was noted that certain intersections had improper and unsafe yellow light durations which obfuscated traffic and drivers caught in those situations were unfairly penalized. A constant opposer to the cameras, Matt Florell, cited specifically the rapid shift from yellow to red at 1st Ave. S, 22nd Ave. S and 38th Ave. N which meant tickets for roughly 2,500 people. 

Kriseman himself has maintained the position that the cameras work. Since their insertion into the ‘Burg traffic tickets have decreased, the loss of revenue serves as a key indicator that driver demeanor has changed. Whether or not correlation equals causation is up to interpretation.  

*Photo via TBO

Initial plans reveal that the cameras will be removed no later than September 30. The city will continue to observe traffic patterns to see if the number of accidents escalates after their removal. For now, at least, it appears this is a small victory for St. Pete drivers. Buckle up, ‘Burgers, and drive safe.

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