The City of Falls Church announced today that citations will begin being issued today to drivers who run red lights at two intersections along Route 7 in the City. The implementation of the program follows a one-month test run when only warnings were issued to violating motorists, and is touted by the City as part of a new road safety program. Cameras have been installed at the two intersections — where Annandale Road crosses West Broad (Route 7) and where Cherry Street crosses East Broad. The City chose the two Broad Street intersections noted above 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 F.C. 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 major cities such as New York, Philadelphia, and Seattle and are used in some local communities including Arlington County, according to the City’s statement. 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.