Help Decide Where Minneapolis Will Install Its First Speed Cameras

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — The city of Minneapolis is preparing to launch a traffic enforcement program that could reshape how speed limits are enforced across the city, and officials want your input before the cameras go live.

As early as August, the city will begin a traffic safety camera pilot program, deploying automated speed enforcement at five locations. The number of cameras could grow to as many as 42, and red-light enforcement may also be added later.

But before the rollout, the city is asking for residents' input. A short online survey is now live to share thoughts on where cameras should go and what concerns should be prioritized.

Take the survey here.

Why This Matters

The pilot program is part of Vision Zero, the city's effort to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries. Minneapolis officials say speed cameras are a proven way to reduce dangerous driving without relying on police traffic stops.

The return of traffic enforcement cameras comes more than 17 years after the Minnesota Supreme Court struck down Minneapolis’ old "photo cop" program. The state Legislature recently authorized cities to try camera-based enforcement again, with legal guardrails in place.

Key Details

• Start Date: August 2025 (tentative)
• Initial Sites: 5 camera locations
• Potential Expansion: Up to 42 camera sites
• Red-Light Enforcement: May be added later
• Equity Requirement: Each city council ward will have at least two candidate locations

The program is designed with privacy and accountability in mind, officials said:

• First offenses receive warnings
• Fines: $40 for going 10–19 mph over, $80 for 20+ mph
• Photos will not show drivers — only license plates
• No violations on driver records
• Revenue must be reinvested in traffic safety improvements
• An independent evaluation will follow the pilot

Do Speed Cameras Work?

National and local data suggest yes.

• Federal Highway Administration: Speed cameras can reduce injury crashes by up to 47 percent.
• NHTSA: Automated enforcement receives the agency’s highest effectiveness rating.
• In Minneapolis (2017–2021): An average of 150 people per year were killed or seriously injured in crashes. In 2021, speeding was a factor in 65 percent of fatal crashes.

What Critics Say

Opponents argue speed cameras raise privacy concerns, could be applied unevenly across racial lines, and may cause drivers to brake abruptly, leading to rear-end collisions.

Minneapolis says it is committed to using the technology fairly and transparently, with strong oversight and community input.