Delaware to begin pilot speed safety program in I-95 construction zone

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The Delaware Department of Transportation, in partnership with the Delaware State Police, will launch the pilot Electronic Speed Safety Program Monday in the I-95 construction zone in Wilmington.

“The sharp increase in collisions within the construction zone has been concerning and has put the motoring public and individuals in the work zone at risk,” Delaware State Police Col. Melissa Zebley said. “Recognizing that construction zones are problematic areas to conduct traditional speed enforcement, we believe this program will encourage motorists to slow down for the sake of the highway workers and their fellow motorists alike.”

The goal is to improve work zone safety for workers and motorists, change driver behavior, and reduce work zone speeds and crashes.

Last year, there were 423 crashes in the I-95 work zone, a 49 percent increase from 2019.

A warning period will last for the first 30 days.

After the 30 days, warning notices will be mailed to motorists for the first violation. All subsequent violations will result in a violation notice.

Registered vehicle owners will receive a base violation of $20. For each mile over the posted work zone speed limit, an additional $1 will be added.

The Delaware General Assembly authorized the use of automated speed enforcement.