Cameras would catch Ill. highway reckless drivers

Thursday, August 7, 2008
CHICAGO (AP) -- Speeders on Illinois highways may be caught on camera if a new proposal gets through the Legislature.

Governor Rod Blagojevich announced Thursday a plan to put speed enforcement cameras along interstate highways to crack down on reckless drivers.

He says the effort would generate $40 million in the first year. And that money would be used to hire 500 new state troopers who could help cities such as Chicago that are troubled by gang violence.

Cameras already catch motorists violating the speed limit in work zones when workers are present.

The new plan calls for 108 cameras that would target drivers going more than 80 miles per hour. The fine would be $75.

The program would cost an estimated $4 million a year.