Alexandria’s speed camera program in school zones started one year ago, but so far a significant number of tickets issued since then have gone unpaid.
APD Communications Manager Tracy Walker told ALXnow that since the program started in September of 2023, there have been 47,020 tickets issued.
“31% of those tickets issued remain unpaid,” Walker said.
There are five cameras set up in school zones around the city:
- Francis Hammond Middle School (Seminary Road, between Kenmore Avenue and North Jordan Street)
- John Adams Elementary School and Ferdinand T. Day Elementary School (North Beauregard Street, between North Highview Lane and Reading Avenue)
- George Washington Middle School (Mount Vernon Avenue, between Braddock Road and Luray Avenue)
The maximum fine for a speed camera violation in Virginia is $100, but one of the issues briefly raised when the cameras were going through the City Council review process is the City also has limited enforcement mechanisms to follow up on those tickets.
The speed tickets are not considered a “moving violation” and no points are added to the person’s driving record. City Council members also noted during meetings on the speed cameras that the city would not send unpaid tickets to collections agencies.
Walker said a plan to enforce those tickets is being discussed.
“The city is considering a plan to recover unpaid fines,” Walker said.
