Round Rock citizens can anticipate increased safety at intersections around town as a photo-based traffic safety system to monitor red light runners is implemented. 

In November, the City and its contractor, Redflex Traffic Systems, began the testing and system evaluation phase for the first photo-based traffic safety system to be installed in the City. This equipment is located at the southbound approach to Forest Creek Drive and Red Bud Lane intersection. Additional intersections are expected to go live in mid-February.

The system went live on Dec. 14. Fines will be $75 per infraction, and motorists will be able to review a video of the violations and pay the fine online. A late fee of $25 will also be assessed for fines not paid within 30 days.

Each year, nearly 1,000 fatalities in the United States are the direct result of collisions caused by red light running. Across the nation, communities are reducing the number of deaths and injuries from red light offenses by 20 to 50 percent, simply by implementing red light cameras.

“Red light accidents are typically side-impact crashes, causing the most severe damage and fatalities. City staff has identified several critical intersections where red light running is of major concern to public safety,” Round Rock Police Chief Tim Ryle said.

In addition to saving lives, red light cameras yield significant cost savings to motorists and the community. There are fewer property damage claims, lower insurance premiums, reduced medical expenses, and increased productivity for those commuting through once-dangerous intersections.

Revenue from violation fines will be pay for the installation and monthly operation of the cameras. Any remaining revenue will be split between the State of Texas -- which will send its share to regional trauma centers -- and the City of Round Rock for traffic safety programs.

Round Rock staff selected Redflex Traffic Systems following a competitive review. Selection was based in part on Redflex’s extensive experience in the traffic safety arena and touts nearly 50 percent of all photo-based traffic safety programs operating in the United States. 

“Progressive communities across the nation are recognizing that red light running isn’t just a minor traffic violation but that it has major safety and financial implications,” said Karen Finley, President and CEO of Redflex Traffic Systems.