AMES, Iowa – Oct. 2, 2013 – The Iowa Department of Transportation has developed proposed administrative rules to govern implementation and placement of automated traffic enforcement systems on the Primary Highway System. The proposed rules will address both fixed and mobile systems. Automated traffic enforcement systems include speed and red-light camera enforcement technologies.
“Safety on Iowa’s transportation system is the Iowa DOT’s number one priority,” said Paul Trombino, Iowa DOT Director. “Automated traffic enforcement systems need to be implemented in ways that enhance safety on the roadways. The rules will ensure placement does not cause unnecessary distractions or obstructions for motorists that could cause unsafe situations.”
Adoption of rules for automated traffic enforcement will provide local governmental agencies with a defined process for documenting a critical traffic safety issue at a specific location and implementing the warranted traffic safety solution(s). Trombino said, “Our belief is that automatic traffic enforcement systems should be used as a last resort after other safety measures have been exhausted.”
The proposed rules were published in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin today. Now that the rules are published, the Iowa DOT will accept written comments and suggestions. Anyone wishing to get more information or make oral comments to the rules is invited to attend a meeting Oct. 30 at 1 p.m. at the Hampton Inn and Suites, 6210 SE Convenience Blvd. in Ankeny.
