Will Binghamton Add Camera Enforcement to Radar Speed Signs?

Binghamton drivers who've spotted the newly-installed electronic speed display signs around the city may be wondering if the next step will be adding cameras.

Speed cameras now are used sparingly in New York state but some traffic safety and law enforcement officials believe they are useful in encouraging motorists to slow down.

Mayor Jared Kraham said ten signs have been put up in recent weeks. He said when he was campaigning, a man urged him to try to do something about persistent speeding near Recreation Park on the West Side.

Kraham said a pilot program that started with one sign on Pennsylvania Avenue appeared to work well, so the initiative was expanded.

The mayor said he's noticed drivers often tap the brakes when they a sign reveals they're exceeding the speed limit.

Kraham said the goal is to remind motorists that "you're driving in a neighborhood - this is not a racetrack."

In 1987, Binghamton Mayor Juanita Crabb launched a crackdown with the installation of signs that warned drivers: "Don't Even Think of Speeding on Riverside Drive."

Kraham said his initiative "isn't quite to the level" of that short-lived campaign but there is "the same intent" to remind people that they are traveling through a residential community.

As for the possibility of future speed cameras in Binghamton, Kraham indicated that's not something being considered. He pointed out there are specific state restrictions on the use of speed cameras.

The mayor noted the speed display signs are not tracking license plates or other vehicle information.

The display signs now are in use on Riverside Drive, Beethoven Street, Grand Boulevard, West End Avenue, Court Street, North Street, Prospect Street, Conklin Avenue, Vestal Avenue and Park Avenue.

Kraham said more signs might be installed in the future.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.