The city of Bakersfield is adding red light cameras to major roadways in an effort to beef up enforcement beyond its existing cameras.
The Bakersfield Police Department is working to install Redflex automated traffic cameras that are able to detect traffic violations; in the city’s case, that’s failing to stop at a red light.
Redflex cameras are capable of detecting other violations, such as speeding or failing to stop for a school bus, but in an email, BPD spokeswoman Sally Selby said the cameras would only be used for traffic light enforcement.
While some California cities have added cameras able to capture and cite speeding drivers, Selby said that program is still in its pilot phase and speed cameras are only allowed in certain cities, Bakersfield not being one of them.
Cities that have deployed speed cameras include Los Angeles and Oakland.
The city plans to install six cameras, at southbound Gosford Road at Ming Avenue; southbound Stine Road at White Lane; southbound New Stine Road at Ming; eastbound White Lane at Gosford; eastbound Ming at New Stine and eastbound Panama at Ashe Road.
Selby said BPD hopes the cameras are operational in the next 60 to 90 days.
Known as Redflex cameras, the city is contracted with Verra Mobility for equipment and services.
Selby said the cameras are not monitored in real time and will not be used in the city’s real-time information center.
Radar trailers deployed by the department don’t capture driver information, only how many speed violations occur and at what times of day.