The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) is expanding its automated speed enforcement program, Safe Zones, to a new location on Interstate 65 in northwest Indiana beginning July 7.
The pilot program, designed to improve safety in active work zones, is currently operational on Interstate 465/Interstate 69 near Indianapolis. The new enforcement area on I-65 will stretch from mile markers 235 to 239 near Lowell in Lake County.
“Overall, the program has been successful in slowing drivers down,” said Lyndsay Quist, NDOT commissioner, in a statement. “Slower speeds create safer conditions not only for road workers, but also for drivers and their passengers."
Authorized through House Enrolled Act 1015 during the 2023 legislative session, Safe Zones uses truck-mounted speed timing devices to detect vehicles traveling 11 mph or more over the posted limit.
The system captures a photo of the vehicle’s rear license plate, and after verification, a notice is mailed to the vehicle’s owner. The first violation results in a warning; subsequent offenses carry fines of $75 and $150, respectively.
State law requires that violations only be issued when workers are present, and signs are posted to notify drivers when entering and exiting monitored areas. All fines collected are directed to the state’s General Fund.
“Safety is the driving force behind this program,” said Matt Ubelhor, secretary of Transportation and Infrastructure, in a statement. “We want everyone to go home to their loved ones at the end of the day.”
During its first month in the Clear Path zone, the system issued more than 25,000 warning notices. INDOT plans to operate Safe Zones at up to four locations statewide and will release annual performance reports throughout the five-year pilot.
Source: Indiana Department of Transportation, Wane.com
