KY adding traffic cameras to construction zones to deter speeders. What to know
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet launched a new initiative Tuesday aimed at improving safety in state highway work zones.
Cabinet officials are planning to install automated speed enforcement cameras in some work zones throughout the state. The cameras are equipped with radar and photographic technology to catch drivers speeding 10 mph or more over the posted limit, according to the transportation cabinet.
If a camera catches a speeder, data will be sent to an on-site police officer, who will initiate a traffic stop at the end of the work zone and issue a fine starting at $500. Citations will be issued only in person, the transportation cabinet said.
Cameras have not been placed in work zones yet, but at least four cameras are expected to be installed this year, including one in Lexington, according to the transportation cabinet. Locations of the installed cameras will be announced at a later date.
Work zones with automated speed enforcement cameras will have warning signs with flashing lights to alert drivers to the camera’s presence.
“Our goal is not to issue tickets,” Kentucky State Police Maj. Eric Walker said in a news release. “We want to ensure safe speeds, to prevent fatalities and to protect both motorists and construction crews working in these high-risk environments. This new enforcement tool will help us do that throughout the state.”
There were more than 1,223 work zone crashes in Kentucky last year, resulting in seven deaths and 298 injuries, according to the transportation cabinet. A work zone is defined as a portion of a state highway where construction is being conducted by a government agency, private contractor or utility company.
Earlier this year, the General Assembly passed a law that allowed the use of automated speed enforcement cameras in work zones.
“Speeding through work zones isn’t just reckless. It can be deadly,” Gov. Andy Beshear said in the news release. “In Kentucky, we believe that protecting our people is always the right thing to do, and now we have a new tool to help make that happen.”
This story was originally published August 14, 2025 at 12:38 PM.
