DEKALB COUNTY, TN - In 2021, it was confirmed that state regulations would not enable the local courts in Murfreesboro to enforce the collection of the $50 fines charged to drivers who were caught on camera running red lights. Shortly after, elected city officials allowed the contract with the company that managed the red light cameras to simply fade away, as opposed to renewing it. At the time, there were about $2.5-million in outstanding fines that went uncollected. 4 Years later, one nearby city is moving forward with their own camera enforcement system, but not for red lights.
During a recent meeting held in Smithville, Tennessee, city leaders talked about their new school zone traffic enforcement system that's in the works, and city officials made sure residents understood how it operates. During the meeting, City of Smithville Attorney Vester Parsley explained the process for appealing tickets issued through the automated system and how the agreement with Blue Line, the company providing the technology, benefits the city.
Parsley told residents there is a procedure to have an appeal. He noted that those who receive citations have the right to a hearing in city court, where a representative from Blue Line can explain how the system captures images and records violations. If the court rules against the city, the case is dismissed. However, if the ticket is upheld, the city receives $25 from the $50 fine, with the remaining $25 going to Blue Line.
Parsley also emphasized that before the program moves forward, a traffic study must be conducted. Blue Line will cover the cost of the study, but the city will be responsible for hiring an independent company to carry it out. Additionally, he confirmed that there is a process for discontinuing the contract if necessary, with specific criteria and deadlines outlined in the agreement.
To ensure drivers are aware of the enforcement, new signage will be installed throughout the school zones. Project representative Moore explained that signs will be placed at all side streets entering school zones, and radar feedback signs will be mounted on 14-foot poles before motorists enter the monitored area.
Drivers will have between 300 and 600 feet to reduce their speed after passing the final warning sign. The system will use LiDAR single-beam technology to track vehicles in both directions on Highway 70 and 56, ensuring that all motorists—eastbound and westbound—are monitored.
With the project moving forward, city officials aim to improve school zone safety while providing a transparent appeal process for drivers who may receive citations.
Source: Partners Station WJLE
