FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                               January 29, 2004

RED LIGHT CAMERAS BEGIN CLICKING IN CARY ON SATURDAY

CARY , NC – Red light cameras get turned on in Cary on Saturday at the first of 16 intersections slated to get the new enforcement tools over the next three months.  The move to add photo enforcement is designed to reduce accidents, help keep traffic flowing well by not allowing intersections to be blocked, and economically and efficiently expand police’s ability to enforce traffic safety laws 24/7.  Cary ’s first SafeLight intersection is Cary Towne Boulevard at Convention Drive/Principal Lane .   

“The SafeLight Cary program is in keeping with our designation as American’s 5^th Safest City and as North Carolina ’s Technology Town ,” said Town of Cary Police Chief WJ Hunter .  “We’re very optimistic that this public safety program will be of great benefit to our community.”  

Cary was one of several municipalities that received permission from the General Assembly in 2001 to create red light camera programs.  Based on that Legislative authority (SB 243), red light camera citations carry a $50 fine with an additional $50 penalty if the fine is not paid when due.  However, no driver's license or insurance points are assessed.   

“SafeLight Cary really focuses on safety, not on generating revenues,” said Hunter.  “Any profits go to Wake County Public Schools.”  

Provided by Redflex of Australia, Cary ’s system uses the most advanced, digital technology to ensure the highest level of accuracy.  Even so, some vehicle owners may not be at fault if, for example, another person is driving the vehicle.  That’s why Cary has established a kinder, gentler red light program.  First, only warning notices will be issued for the first 15 days of SafeLight Cary.  Second, Cary is mounting a strong public education program to make sure folks traveling in and through Cary are aware of SafeLight Cary.   Third, Cary has hired a retired police major to review all images before citations are issued.  Fourth, Cary ’s notification forms are polite and friendly.  Fifth, Redflex has established an office down the street from Town Hall where folks can pay their tickets or discuss their citation with a live person.  And finally, every person has the right to an appeal.  

“We’ve learned a lot from other jurisdictions with red light cameras, and our goal is to have the best program in the state,” said Hunter.  

For more about SafeLight Cary, including how Cary ’s system works and what other intersections will get cameras, visit SAFELIGHT CARY at  http://www.townofcary.org/depts/dsdept/redsignal/overview.htm

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