Minneapolis Traffic Cameras Cut Speeding, But Not Tickets
New traffic cameras in Minneapolis appear to be working, as city data shows speeding has decreased at key intersections. In a twist, however, the total number of tickets issued for speeding has actually increased.
The Minneapolis automated traffic enforcement pilot launched on October 1, 2025, as a key component of the city's Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate traffic-related deaths and severe injuries. The program began with five high-risk intersections and is slated to run through July 2029, with the potential to expand to as many as 42 locations. The city has a four-year contract with vendor NovoaGlobal for up to $12 million to manage the camera systems. In its first month of operation, the program demonstrated a significant impact on driver behavior at the camera locations. Data showed that the rate of drivers exceeding the speed limit by 10 mph or more decreased by nearly 30%, while the number of vehicles traveling 20 mph or more over the limit dropped by 76%. City officials noted that 98% of drivers in the camera zones are now complying with the speed limit. The enforcement system includes a warning period and a tiered fine structure. For a first offense, drivers receive a warning in the mail. Subsequent violations result in a $40 fine for speeds 10-19 mph over the limit, which increases to $80 for speeds 20 mph or more over. As an alternative to paying the fine for a first-time citation, drivers have the option to take a free traffic safety class. These citations from the automated system are civil penalties and do not get recorded on a driver's record. The cameras are designed to protect privacy by only capturing images of the rear of the vehicle and its license plate, not the driver or passengers. All potential violations are reviewed and verified by a Minneapolis traffic control agent before a warning or citation is issued. The introduction of automated enforcement comes after a notable decrease in traditional traffic stops by the Minneapolis Police Department. A 2025 analysis found that police-initiated traffic stops in 2024 were down 82% compared to their pre-pandemic peak. This decline highlights a shift in enforcement strategies, with the city now incorporating technology to address traffic safety. The initial five camera locations were selected based on crash data and are spread across the city. They are located at 3rd Street North near 1st Avenue North, Fremont Avenue North near West Broadway Avenue, 18th Avenue Northeast near Central Avenue Northeast, Chicago Avenue near Franklin Avenue East, and Nicollet Avenue near 46th Street West. The city plans to add red-light enforcement capabilities to some locations in 2026. The stated goal of the program is to enhance safety and change driver behavior, not to generate revenue. Under state law, any revenue generated from the fines must be used to cover the costs of the program and be reinvested in other traffic safety and calming measures throughout the city.
