Article Contributed on: 8/20/2009 3:50:30 PM
The new Intersection Safety Program (ISP) will begin in Littleton August 24 at 12:00 a.m. Drivers have had 30 days to heed traffic signals and stop at red lights receiving only a warning. As of Monday, those who run the red light at the intersection of South Broadway and Littleton Boulevard will receive a citation in the mail with a fine of $75.
This new traffic safety program is aimed at reducing dangerous red-light running at known problem intersections. Photo-enforcement cameras will capture still images and video of red-light running violations.
During the 30-day warning period, a warning notice was issued to 397 registered owners of vehicles who ran the red light. The warning period was designed to give motorists an opportunity to become familiar with the red-light system. There are signs at the intersection alerting motorists to ISP.
"Our goal is to stop red light violations and prevent collisions and injuries that result from running a red light," said Littleton Police Chief Heather Coogan. "We've publicized this program extensively to encourage people to stop on red. Hopefully drivers are now thinking twice before putting the lives of other drivers, passengers, pedestrians and bicyclists at risk by running the red light," Coogan added.
Last fall, a study of this intersection by American Traffic Solutions found 49 violations in a 12-hour period. In 2007, this intersection had the second highest number of accidents of all intersections in the city. In first place was the intersection of Santa Fe Drive and West Mineral Avenue; the intersection of South Santa Fe Drive and West Bowles Avenue tied for third. ISP cameras will be installed at these two intersections this fall.
The City of Littleton contracted with ATS to administer the ISP. ATS is a leading provider of red-light camera systems in the U.S., working with more than 170 communities including: Greenwood Village, Pueblo, Lone Tree, Commerce City, Cherry Hills Village and the E-470 Highway Authority.
Each violation will be reviewed by the Littleton Police Department prior to a citation being issued. More information about the program can be found on the city's website at
www.littletongov.org. Information about ATS is available at
www.atsol.com or
www.RedLightCamera.com.
Kelli Narde is the director of communications for the City of Littleton.