Tiny Colorado Town Issues 10,000 Speeding Tickets in 2 Weeks

Speed Cameras in Morrison, Colorado

The town of Morrison in Colorado recently made headlines for issuing an astonishing 10,287 speeding violations in just two weeks. The new speed cameras installed in the town managed to catch drivers going 10 mph over the 25 mph speed limit, resulting in a $40 ticket for each offender.

Surprising Numbers

Police Chief Bill Vinelli expressed surprise at the high number of citations but clarified that the cameras were not intended as a money-making scheme. The cameras were installed in March but only started issuing tickets in May after a 60-day grace period with warnings.

Revenue Source or Safety Measure?

Despite the potential revenue boost of nearly $400,000 in fines, Vinelli emphasized that the cameras were strategically placed to enhance road safety rather than generate income. The town’s population of 396 residents often swells with visitors, leading to congested roads during events.

Controversy and Accusations

Morrison has faced accusations of relying on speeding fines as a significant revenue source, with nearly half of the town’s budget coming from fines in 2021. The trailer-mounted camera strategically placed at the town’s exit has raised concerns about its impact on drivers accelerating before merging onto the highway.

Community Response

The new police chief defended the use of speed cameras, urging drivers to obey speed limits and avoid speeding through Morrison. The town’s reputation as a speed trap has sparked debates about the balance between revenue generation and road safety.

Conclusion

As Morrison continues to grapple with the aftermath of the speed camera blitz, the debate over the role of traffic enforcement measures in small towns like Morrison is likely to persist. The balance between revenue generation and road safety remains a contentious issue that requires careful consideration and community dialogue.