Drivers crossing New York City’s bridges and tunnels will soon see speed cameras in active construction zones as part of a new effort aimed at protecting roadway workers.
Beginning June 30, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority will activate automated speed enforcement in work zones at nine MTA bridges and tunnels across the five boroughs, including four crossings in the Bronx. The expansion builds on New York’s Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement Program, which launched on state highways in 2021.
MTA Bridges and Tunnels President Catherine Sheridan called the initiative “a life-saving program,” saying it is designed to reduce speeding where construction crews are working. The agency also plans to use unmarked enforcement vehicles during active work hours.
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions from drivers.
“It’s nothing but entrapment and generating money for the city,” said Parkchester resident Gwen Reece.
Others support the move.
“It’s good. It slows you down,” said Andrew Oneto, of Parkchester.
While some drivers question the need for speed cameras on bridges where pedestrians are generally absent, transportation officials say construction workers remain at risk whenever maintenance or repair projects are underway.
According to the MTA, there were nearly 900 fatal crashes and about 40,000 injuries in work zones nationwide in 2023. Last September, a construction worker from the Bronx was killed in a hit-and-run on the Nassau Expressway.
“When you walk close to the edge and you see them guys doing 40 [mph], if you get hit with that car you can feel it,” Oneto said.
For now, drivers caught speeding in MTA work zones will receive warnings. Later this year, first-time violators will face a $50 fine, while drivers who receive three or more violations within an 18-month period could be fined up to $100.