Big Brother takes on I-380 with new speed cameras

Cedar Rapids Police will soon kick it up a notch when it comes to those automated cameras for traffic violations.

Red light cameras appeared at about a dozen intersections months ago.  But in two weeks, or less, other cameras will start issuing automated speeding tickets on Interstate 380.

A number of the cameras were recently installed behind an exit sign on I-380 near Diagonal Drive S.W.  Those cameras will monitor northbound traffic entering the downtown portion of the interstate.  The speed limit in that area is 55 miles per hour.

It's easy to miss the cameras because of the location behind a large sign.  But for now, it doesn't matter.  The system won't send out real tickets until the test period is over.

But some drivers expect the mounted speed cameras to kick up even more controversy than the red light cameras.

One driver, Julie Earle, said “I think they're (drivers) going to be more angry because out of the interstate it's hard to control speeds-because people are used to going faster on the freeway.”  Another driver, Cody Fritz, added “I imagine a lot of people will have to watch their speed.  I think it's going to catch-who knows how many.”

As you approach an intersection with a red light camera, you  see “photo enforced” warning signs.  Getting caught running a red light is a standard $100 civil fine with no court costs.

A similar warning sign will go out on I-380 before the automatic speed camera tickets begin.  But the fines will vary.

Cedar Rapids Police say five miles over the limit costs just $25.  But 10 miles over that doubles it to $50.  As speeds climb fines get steeper-topping out at $500 for anyone caught going 30+ miles-per-hour over the limit.

While the cameras installed now will only cover northbound lanes, those drivers heading south on I-380 through the downtown section won't escape scrutiny forever.  Another set of fixed cameras for southbound lanes will go up near St. Luke's Hospital.

Cedar Rapids Police say they'll give a final public warning before the I-380 speed cameras go live.  And no, police won't tell us how much over the 55 mile-per-hour limit you can go before they'll mail out the ticket.

Dave Franzman, KCRG-TV