WSDOT Reveals Results of Work Zone Speed Camera Program, Plans for Expansion

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) reports significant progress from its work zone speed camera program one year after implementation, with speeding rates in monitored work zones declining from approximately 60% to 30%. Despite this improvement, unsafe driving behavior remains a concern, as workers continue to experience near misses and hazardous conditions, underscoring ongoing risks in active construction areas. The program, which currently deploys six mobile cameras, has issued approximately 65,000 infractions—most of them warnings for first-time offenders—and is funded through collected fines. In response to both its effectiveness and persistent safety challenges, WSDOT plans to expand the program to 15 cameras and introduce stricter penalties, including a $125 fine for initial violations starting July 1. The initiative aims to further modify driver behavior and enhance safety for roadway workers.