Chicago City Council approves speed cameras

The Chicago City Council has approved Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s ordinance to install speed cameras throughout the city and ticket violators up to $100.

The council approved the measure 33 to 14 on Wednesday. The cameras will be installed near parks and schools. Aldermen say the cameras are an important protection measure. Alderman James Balcer said the cameras are “good for our communities” and “will save lives.”

Emanuel altered the ordinance last week, reducing fines for driving six to 10 mph over speed limits to $35 from $50. Motorists caught going more than 11 mph faster than the speed limit will be fined $100.

Warning tickets will be issued for the first 30 days, and first-time violators will be issued one warning ticket before they are fined.