Police Respond To Concerns About Traffic Camera Plan In New London

NEW LONDON, CT — The New London Police Department is addressing concerns that have been raised about a proposed Automated Traffic Enforcement Safety Device program.

The devices are intended to curb dangerous driving behaviors like speeding, impaired driving, and distracted driving.

Below is the full statement from police, which was posted on Facebook:

We as an agency understand the concerns raised about the proposed ATESD (Automated Traffic Enforcement Safety Devices) program and its effectiveness in addressing the primary causes of serious and fatal accidents. We want to assure the public that these concerns are being taken seriously.

First, it's important to acknowledge that traffic safety is a multifaceted issue. Factors such as distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving, and failure to adhere to traffic laws all contribute to accidents. We agree that addressing these underlying causes is crucial. The ATESD program is not intended as a standalone solution but as one component of a broader, comprehensive strategy.

ATESD aims to modify driver behavior by increasing awareness of traffic laws and the consequences of violations. By focusing on areas where speeding is prevalent, we anticipate a reduction in dangerous driving behaviors. Speeding correlates with a higher risk and severity of injuries during a collision. However, this is just one part of the puzzle. We remain committed to investing in educational programs, increasing police presence in high-risk areas, and utilizing data-driven strategies to target specific causes of accidents. We are open to continued dialogue and collaboration with the community and experts to refine our approach and ensure the safety of all residents.

We will continue to evaluate and adjust our strategies to ensure we are effectively addressing all factors contributing to accidents in our community.

It's important to note that the implementation of the ATESD program will not affect the operation of our police personnel on patrol. Our officers will continue to focus on their core responsibilities, while the ATESD system will serve as an additional tool to deter dangerous driving behaviors.

Please be assured that due diligence has been and will continuously be exercised in all matters related to this program. We are committed to ensuring that the ATESD program operates effectively and fairly. No New London location being considered for the ATESD program is in violation of Connecticut governing statues.

Finally, we want to emphasize that all revenue generated from the ATESD program will be solely used to enhance public safety and roadway safety initiatives and projects. This includes investments in improved signage, traffic calming measures, and other programs designed to make our streets safer for everyone.

We are confident that the ATESD program will be a valuable tool in our ongoing efforts to improve traffic safety in New London. We are committed to transparency and will continue to provide updates as the program is implemented.