Phoenix drivers have a limited time to adjust: 30 days of warnings will be issued before the city’s new speed cameras begin handing out $250 fines on March 25th. This marks the first time Phoenix has used automated speed enforcement since 2019, as part of a broader $10 million traffic safety initiative.
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Why Now?
The return of speed cameras comes at a critical moment. According to city officials, data shows high-risk areas with frequent speed-related accidents, including serious injuries and deaths. Phoenix Police report that speeding is among the most common citizen complaints, and staffing shortages mean officers can’t always address this effectively. Automated enforcement allows police to focus on more urgent calls.
How the Cameras Work
The system includes 17 cameras : nine permanently installed along major roads with documented crash histories, and eight that will rotate weekly among school zones.
- Regular Roads: Tickets will be issued for speeds 11 mph or higher over the posted limit.
- School Zones: The threshold drops to just 5 mph over the limit, meaning speeding at 20 mph in a 15 mph zone will result in a citation.
The fines start at $250 but can increase depending on speed and location. The cameras are positioned mid-block, focusing on speed rather than red-light running.
A Potential Backlash?
The move isn’t without opposition. Arizona lawmakers are pushing SCR 1004, a measure that would put the legality of photo traffic enforcement up for a public vote statewide. Unlike standard bills, this proposal doesn’t require the governor’s signature if passed. The initiative gains momentum after scandals like the Mesa ticket controversy.
Permanent Camera Locations
Here are the locations where the permanent speed cameras will be installed:
- Thunderbird Road (between 35th Ave and I-17)
- 32nd Street (between Greenway Pkwy and Bell Rd)
- Thunderbird Road (between I-17 and 19th Ave)
- 7th Street (between Thomas Rd and Indian School Rd)
- Indian School Rd (between 83rd Ave and 75th Ave)
- Camelback Rd (between 24th St and 32nd St)
- 51st Ave (between Van Buren St and I-10)
- Baseline Rd (between 16th St and 24th St)
- Bell Rd (between I-17 and 19th Ave)
The key takeaway: Phoenix drivers have until March 24th to adjust or risk receiving costly speeding tickets. The future of these cameras remains uncertain as lawmakers consider putting the issue directly to voters.
