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The City of Syracuse is intensifying efforts to ensure the safety of school children by launching several new traffic enforcement programs. Starting next month, the School Bus Stop Arm Camera program will be introduced, equipping over 200 buses with cameras to capture drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses. First-time offenders will face a $250 fine, with penalties increasing for subsequent violations within 18 months.
In addition to the bus cameras, Syracuse plans to implement red light and speed cameras in school zones. These cameras are expected to become operational between mid-August and early September, with a fine of $50 per violation. The Syracuse City Council approved the bus cameras in June 2023, while the red light and speed cameras received approval in December 2024.
According to CNY Central, the fines are set by New York State and will be enforced by the Syracuse Police Department.
Onondaga County, which includes Syracuse, is collaborating with Verra Mobility to implement one of the state's most extensive school bus safety programs. This initiative will equip over 500 school buses with advanced stop arm safety camera technology, aiming to reduce dangerous traffic violations and protect students. New York State Assemblyman William Magnarelli emphasized the importance of these measures, citing studies that show frequent illegal passing of stopped school buses.
The program will also include a public education campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of passing stopped school buses. Verra Mobility's technology has been shown to significantly reduce traffic violations, with 98% of drivers not repeating their offenses after receiving a violation.
Syracuse Common Councilor Amir Gethers noted that the cameras will only detect speed and red light violations, addressing community concerns about privacy. The cameras will be placed in school zones with the highest number of offenders, with plans to expand to all 34 school zones in the city.
These efforts reflect Syracuse's commitment to creating a safer environment for students and reducing traffic-related incidents in school zones.