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- History of Photo Enforcement in Everett
History of Photo Enforcement in Everett
As of 2023, over 30 Washington cities have ordinances that allow automated traffic safety enforcement, and 8 of the 10 largest municipalities have active photo enforcement programs.
2005
The Washington State legislature adopted a law authorizing cities and counties in Washington State to use automated traffic safety cameras in limited situations. The cameras may only be placed in the following locations:
- Intersections of two or more arterials with traffic control signals
- Railroad crossings; and
- School speed zones.
2008
The Everett City Council adopted an Ordinance (3106-08) that authorized the use of automated traffic safety cameras to detect and record the image of stoplight violations. The ordinance defines fines and parameters for how revenue generated through photo enforcement can be used.
Fall 2019
The City Council Public Safety Committee requested Public Works staff update crash history and prepare a Council Briefing on what a photo enforcement program might look like. The Transportation Advisory Committee passed a recommendation in November 2019 requesting Council pursue automated traffic safety cameras.
2021
Council briefings were held January and November of 2021, providing the most likely locations for photo enforcement cameras, based on crash history and failure to obey the signal.
2022
Following Council approval to issue a request for qualifications, Novoa Global was contracted by the City as the vendor to construct and administer the traffic safety camera system.
2024
In 2023, the City received a grant under the Federal Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program to create a Vision Zero plan for Everett. Everett’s Vision Zero plan begins development in 2024 and represents a bold vision; zero deaths and serious injuries on our roadways by 2030. Vision Zero strategy involves the collective efforts of enforcement, engineering, education, emergency services, evaluation and sound policy decisions to reduce the number of injury and fatal crashes on our streets. As part of that plan, photo enforcement will be an important tool to enhance our traffic safety efforts.