Cameras checking speed go live Monday

CHICAGO — Chicago officials say the first set of speed-monitoring traffic cameras will go live Monday near Gompers Park on the city's North Side.

Officials say the city's Children's Safety Zone Program initiative will issue only warning tickets during the first 30 days the systems are operating. And the first time a motorist is eligible for a ticket, one "free" warning will be issued.

There are speed and photo-enforcement warning signs approaching the cameras. Officials of the Chicago Department of Transportation believe the system will cause motorists to reduce speed substantially.

Three more systems are being installed and tested on Chicago's West and South sides, and should be operational next week.

Children's Safety Zones are designated areas within short distances of parks and schools.