New Chicago Speed Cameras Spark Heated Debate

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Seven months after the Chicago Department of Transportation installed seven new speed cameras on the city's South and West sides, some drivers say they want the devices taken down, citing concerns over revenue generation rather than safety. However, supporters argue the high number of violations recorded proves the need for the cameras, especially near schools where speeding remains a major issue.

Why it matters

The debate over Chicago's new speed camera program highlights the ongoing tensions between traffic safety initiatives and perceptions of revenue generation, as well as concerns about the disproportionate impact on certain communities. The high volume of violations at some locations raises questions about driver behavior and compliance with speed limits, especially in school zones.

The details

One of the new speed cameras on South Lafayette Avenue in the Auburn Gresham neighborhood has generated the overwhelming majority of violations, accounting for 86% of the total across all seven new camera locations. Since citations began in August, that single camera has captured nearly 34,000 speeding violations. Other new camera sites have produced far fewer tickets. Some drivers describe the cameras as a revenue tool rather than a safety measure, and say the signage is confusing, with a 20mph school zone speed limit sign just feet after another sign reads 'End School Zone'.

• The new speed cameras were installed by the Chicago Department of Transportation in July 2025.
• Monetary citations from the cameras began in August 2025.
• Over the past seven months, the cameras have generated a high volume of speeding violations.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The city has said it will continue to monitor the speed camera program and make adjustments as needed to improve safety and compliance with speed limits, especially in school zones.