#United States #Milford #Altumint #CT Speeding

Addressing the Speeding Crisis in Connecticut

Connecticut has been facing a pressing challenge with road safety, particularly when it comes to speeding. Recognized as one of the most hazardous states in the Northeast for speeding-related incidents, Connecticut has seen alarming statistics over the years. In response to this growing concern, the city of Milford has taken proactive measures by partnering with Altumint to establish a new automated enforcement program aimed at curbing speeding and enhancing public safety.

The Statistics Tell a Story

In 2022, a staggering 38% of all traffic fatalities in Connecticut were tied directly to speeding. This figure significantly outstrips the national average of 29%, indicating an urgent need for intervention. Law enforcement officers in the state executed over 68,000 traffic stops leading up to Memorial Day last year, with speeding and reckless driving identified as predominant causes of traffic violations. These troubling figures highlight the critical nature of Milford’s decision to implement automated enforcement.

Focus Areas for Enforcement

A recent speed study conducted in Milford revealed some alarming data:

• - Merwin Avenue (near Live Oaks School): Nearly 60% of daily traffic was recorded traveling over 10 MPH above the posted speed limit of 25 MPH.
• - Gulf Street (near The Academy): In just four days, over 10,000 vehicles were documented exceeding the speed limit by more than 10 MPH.
• - Boston Post Road: Approximately 6,000 vehicles per day were found speeding, with one instance recorded at an astonishing 95 MPH.

Chief Keith Mello of the Milford Police Department expressed the urgency of the situation, stating, "This program will help us address a real and persistent problem. We have reviewed the data, and it’s evident that the Automated Traffic Enforcement Safety Devices (ATESD) technology can improve safety on our roads."

Implementation Without Financial Burden

A significant aspect of this program is its financial structure. The initiative is fully funded through violations, placing the financial responsibility on violators rather than taxpayers. With this violator-funded model, Milford has opened the door for other municipalities in Connecticut to adopt similar enforcement strategies using the contractual framework established in their collaboration with Altumint. Jason Norton, Chief Revenue Officer at Altumint, commented, “Milford's contract was competitively awarded, so other communities can use their contract to quickly adopt this program. We value the partnership and diligence shown by Milford in prioritizing safety.”

Future Steps

As the program gears up for implementation, the next steps include site selection, community outreach, and the launch of both speed and red-light enforcement programs—anticipated to commence this coming summer. Altumint has a track record of success in enforcing traffic laws through automated systems, aiming to reduce reckless driving behavior while collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies.

About Altumint

Founded with the goal of enhancing road safety, Altumint specializes in providing municipalities with automated enforcement tools, including speed and red-light camera systems. With over 20 years of experience, they have established themselves as a trusted partner for numerous states across the nation, helping local governments develop effective traffic management strategies. Altumint is committed to preserving public safety and has been recognized as one of the few American-owned and operated companies in this specific sector.

For residents and visitors in Milford, the implementation of this automated enforcement program signifies a concerted effort to promote safe driving behaviors and reduce the dangerous statistics surrounding speeding. As these initiatives roll out, they not only aim to protect lives but also foster community trust in law enforcement’s commitment to public safety.