Red light cameras are on their way to Lower Merion Township.
Action News 6 reported that the Board of Commissioners of Lower Merion Township unanimously approved an ordinance setting up the cameras during their meeting on Wednesday, July 16. The first set of cameras will be installed on Lancaster Avenue at Remington Road. Additional locations at Montgomery Avenue and Airdale Road, as well as Lancaster Avenue and Haverford Station Road, are also being evaluated.
A traffic study found that these intersections had the highest number of red light violations. Fines for violators would be set at $100.
During the meeting, Board President Todd M. Sinai stated that studies show red light cameras significantly reduce 90-degree angle crashes, also known as T-bone crashes. He admitted, however, that the red light cameras may result in a slight increase in rear-end crashes at intersections as more drivers stop at yellow lights to avoid being ticketed by the cameras.
“One of the first things we’re going to look at is the accident reduction when the cameras go in service,” he said.
According to the Patch, the factors to be studied include changes in traffic violation rates, crash data, revenues received from violators, and administrative efficiency. Based on these findings, the Board of Commissioners will determine whether current staffing levels and existing resources can support the expansion of cameras to additional intersections in the township.
The dates of the cameras’ installation and activation have not been confirmed.Â