This red light camera at the intersection of Peterson and California avenues could become a speed camera too if the City Council approves Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s plan. (Credit: CBS)
Reporting Regine Schlesinger
CHICAGO (CBS) — Mayor Rahm Emanuel might have to slow down his plan to install speed cameras in school zones.
As WBBM Newsrasdio’s Regine Schlesinger reports, 38 years ago, an opinion by the Illinois Attorney General held that children had to be visibly present before a driver could be cited for violating a school zone speed limit.
LISTEN: WBBM Newsradio’s Regine Schlesinger reports
The Chicago Tribune reports that means automate cameras will not only have to catch drivers speeding, but also will have to document that children were somewhere nearby at the time of the violation.
Chicago managing deputy transportation commissioner Scott Kubly told the Tribune that the requirement poses an “unusual challenge.” The goal is to create a machine that can replicate what a police officer could do at a glance, the Tribune reports.
Of the companies bidding for the contract, Kubly tells the Tribune that the city will look at their proposals to see how they did.
The City Council back in April approved the plan to install speed cameras near schools and parks.
Under the plan, any intersection within 1/8 of a mile, or one city block, around schools and parks will be a candidate to receive a camera.
First-time offenders will only receive warnings for speeding violations, and nobody will receive more than a warning for the first 30 days after the cameras are turned on.
