The Great Greenwich Speed Camera Debate Continues
- Apr 24
- 2 min read
During the Board of Selectmen meeting on Thursday, April 23, 2026, Sergeant J.D. Smith and the board provided a status update on the school zone speed camera program. While the initiative was implemented to address safety concerns—specifically noting that 64% of child pedestrian fatalities occur during school hours (6:00 AM to 6:00 PM)—the cameras were powered off on April 2.
This suspension followed the discovery that certain procedural requirements for the program's approval were not fully met. Community pushback continues to grow, with a recent survey here against the cameras reaching over 1,300 signatures. However, officials noted they have also received a "deluge" of positive responses from residents who support reducing speeds in school zones, including some who were in favor of the program even after receiving a ticket.
Key Community Concerns & Adjustments
The meeting addressed specific grievances raised by the public and outlined potential changes to the program:
Turnaround for Contests: The current 10-day window to contest a violation was identified as a major pain point. The town is working with the vendor, Blue Line, to extend this period to 30 days, which will require an amendment to the town ordinance for consistency.
Signage and Visibility: While current signs comply with strict federal and state regulations, the town is awaiting DOT approval to add time placards that explicitly state the hours of enforcement.
Speeding Data: Despite the pushback, officials noted that the program has already led to a marked decrease in speeding. However, extreme violations persist; Sergeant Smith cited a recent incident where a motorist was caught traveling 80 mph in a 30 mph zone while driving three children to school.
The Refund Question
A significant point of contention remains whether residents who have already paid fines will receive refunds. First Selectman Fred Camillo stated that a decision has not yet been made, as the town is still consulting with legal counsel and the vendor.
Mark Your Calendar
According to First Selectman Camillo, in his newsletter here, a hearing is scheduled to allow residents to get the facts and comment on elements of the revised safety plan that will soon be submitted to the State, such as locations of the cameras and hours of operation. "It will not be a forum for complaints."
Date: Thursday, May 14, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Town Hall Meeting Room
Between the Lines: Remember, don't speed while driving to the meeting.