The City of Falls Church is launching a new road safety program to prevent red-light running. The Falls Church Focus on Safety Program aims to protect drivers, passengers, cyclists and pedestrians from injuries or crashes caused by red-light runners. The City has installed intersection safety cameras at Broad and Cherry Streets and at Broad Street and Annandale Road, and for the next 30 days - until Jan. 18 - the City will issue warnings to drivers caught on camera running a red light. Citations will be issued beginning on Jan. 18.

The City chose these locations after evaluating where red-light running commonly occurs and where intersection safety cameras are most likely to improve safety.

"These days, too many drivers choose to ignore traffic signals and think running a red light is acceptable. We want to change this aggressive driving behavior by using technology. Red has always meant stop," said Police Chief Harry Reitze.

Across the nation, more than 600 cities use road safety programs as a traffic safety tool. Intersection safety cameras have proven effective in reducing the incidence of red-light running in cities such as New York, Philadelphia, and Seattle and are used in some local communities, including Arlington County.

The City contracts with American Traffic Solutions to administer the program. Road safety technology is one approach the City of Falls Church is taking to make local streets safer for everyone. For more information about the Falls Church Focus on Safety Program, visit www.fallschurchva.gov.