Kentucky’s New Work Zone Speed Cameras Already Making an Impact

Kentucky’s recently launched speed enforcement cameras in highway work zones are already showing promising results, with lawmakers reporting noticeable drops in driver speeds since the program began rolling out in recent weeks.

During an Interim Transportation Committee meeting on Tuesday, legislators received an optimistic update on the system’s early effectiveness. Officials said that even the presence of warning signs indicating active speed monitoring is influencing drivers to slow down—often without any enforcement action needed.

“People are already starting to slow down when they’re entering work zones, and that is the whole purpose,” said Rep. John Blanton, who sponsored the bill authorizing the camera program.

The system uses cameras that activate when warning lights on roadside signs are illuminated. These cameras record vehicle speeds in real time and relay the data to officers stationed outside work zones. Drivers caught speeding may face traffic stops once they exit the construction area.

Blanton stressed that the goal isn’t to issue tickets but to change driving habits across Kentucky.

“It’s not about writing citations. It’s not a money grab—contrary to what some say,” Blanton explained. “It’s about saving lives by changing the cultural mindset of how we drive through work zones. We need to drive more attentively and slower—and we’re already seeing a positive impact before the first citation has even been issued.”

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet highlighted the need for safer work zones, citing over 1,300 crashes in 2024 alone, resulting in 185 injuries and seven deaths.

Blanton said the program’s success will ultimately be measured by reductions in those numbers. Lawmakers also noted that states with similar work zone speed camera programs have reported 80% to 90% fewer crashes.

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