Milford Adopts Innovative Traffic Enforcement Solutions
Connecticut has emerged as one of the most hazardous states in the Northeast for speeding-related incidents, prompting Milford to take decisive action. The city has engaged Altumint to introduce a state-of-the-art automated speed and red-light enforcement system aimed at significantly improving road safety. This program is unique as it is entirely funded by violators, allowing for broader implementation throughout Connecticut municipalities via cooperative agreements.
Speeding poses a significant threat on the roads. In recent years, a staggering proportion of traffic fatalities have been attributed to this reckless behavior. Recent statistics reveal that in 2022, 38% of all traffic deaths in Connecticut were linked to speeding—substantially higher than the national average of 29%, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Furthermore, state troopers recorded over 68,000 traffic stops leading up to Memorial Day last year, with speeding and reckless driving identified as the predominant causes.
The urgent need for action is underlined by a comprehensive speed study conducted in Milford, the findings of which are alarming. Key locations highlighted include:
Critical Locations Identified in Speed Study
- Merwin Avenue, adjacent to Live Oaks School, where nearly 60% of daily traffic exceeded the posted speed limit by more than 10 MPH.
- Gulf Street, near The Academy, where over 10,000 vehicles surpassed the speed limit by over 10 MPH within just four days.
- Boston Post Road, reporting nearly 6,000 speeding vehicles every day, with one instance recorded at over 95 MPH.
Milford Police Chief Keith Mello commented on the initiative, stating, "This program will help us tackle a real and continuous problem. The data clearly indicates that ATESD technology can enhance safety on our roads and curb speeding behavior." The program is also set to incorporate red-light enforcement at intersections deemed high-risk. Thanks to the cooperation with Altumint, there will be no financial burden on taxpayers, as funding will solely come from traffic citations.
"The granting of Milford's contract was highly competitive, allowing other municipalities to seamlessly implement the program through our agreement," said Jason Norton, Chief Revenue Officer at Altumint. "We are grateful for Milford’s commitment to enhance safety and the diligence they have demonstrated in this initiative." Implementation is anticipated to commence in the summer, focusing on critical site selection and community outreach, along with launching both speed and red-light enforcement strategies.
Altumint’s Commitment to Safer Roads
Altumint specializes in equipping municipalities with automated enforcement solutions such as speed and red-light cameras. These technologies are vital in reducing dangerous driving behavior to improve road safety and augment the capabilities of law enforcement. Altumint is recognized for its selection through a qualifications-based vendor list by the Capitol Region Council of Governments (CRCOG), providing further opportunities for municipalities to adopt safety measures through competitive cooperative agreements. With 20 years of operational experience, Altumint stands out as one of the few American-owned companies in the photo enforcement sector, having initiated speed enforcement solutions in both Florida and Virginia, among others.
Milford Police Department Mission
The mission of the Milford Police Department revolves around delivering exemplary service to ensure safety and a peaceful quality of life for residents and visitors alike. They are committed to a proactive approach focused on protecting life and property, preventing crime, and promptly addressing community concerns. Their dedication is evident in their commitment to uphold professionalism, impartiality, and bias-free service.
To achieve these objectives, the department emphasizes establishing strong partnerships with residents, local businesses, elected officials, and city departments, fostering a safe environment for all. The Milford Police Department is dedicated to continuous improvement and aims to build an organization characterized by excellence and dedication to community safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of Milford's new program with Altumint?
The primary goal is to enhance road safety by reducing speeding and dangerous driving through automated enforcement technologies.
How is the new enforcement program funded?
The program will be entirely financed through citations issued to violators, ensuring no cost to taxpayers.
Where will the automated enforcement be implemented?
It will be deployed on key roadways and high-risk intersections identified in community studies.
What technologies will be used in the enforcement program?
The program will utilize automated speed cameras and red-light cameras as part of its enforcement strategy.
How does this program impact the community?
The initiative aims to increase safety on the roads, decrease traffic accidents, and foster a better driving environment for all residents and visitors.
