CHICAGO — The city is activating seven new speed enforcement cameras at key school and park zones this summer, ramping up its 2025 traffic safety efforts. The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) confirmed that each location will begin with a 30-day warning period, after which speeding drivers will be fined based on how fast they’re going over the limit.
The rollout is part of a broader initiative to improve pedestrian safety, especially around schools, amid growing concern over reckless driving in residential neighborhoods.
Fine System for Speeding Violations
Once enforcement begins, drivers caught by the cameras will face:
-
$35 fines for driving 6–10 mph over the speed limit
-
$100 fines for driving 11+ mph over the speed limit
The city will also include a “blackout” data collection period, during which cameras track violations but don’t issue tickets — helping officials monitor driver behavior trends and adjust messaging accordingly.
Where Are the New Cameras Being Installed?
The first two cameras were activated for warning-only mode on June 1, with full enforcement beginning July 15:
-
1477 W. Cermak Rd (near Benito Juarez High School)
-
147 S. Desplaines St (near Francis Xavier Warde School)
The remaining five locations begin their warning periods on June 15, with full enforcement to start August 1:
-
4021 W. Belmont Ave – Aspira School
-
631 S. Racine Ave – Arrigo Park
-
216 S. Jefferson St – Heritage Green Park
-
8550 S. Lafayette Ave – Perspectives High School
-
2948 W. 47th St – Mansueto High School
What Drivers Need to Know
-
Automated signs and pavement markings will be installed at all locations to warn drivers.
-
In school zones, speed camera enforcement hours are:
-
7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on school days: 20 mph when children are present
-
4 p.m. to 7 p.m.: Regular posted speed limits apply
-
-
For park zones, cameras operate from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, coinciding with park hours.
50 New Cameras by End of 2025
City officials said these seven new cameras are part of a larger plan to deploy 50 new automated speed enforcement units citywide in 2025.
According to CDOT, the program is aimed at reducing traffic injuries and fatalities, especially in high-pedestrian corridors. Most current cameras are positioned near schools and parks to protect children and families.
“These cameras are not about generating revenue. They’re about saving lives,” a city spokesperson emphasized in a statement earlier this year.
Have you noticed new speed enforcement signs in your neighborhood? What are your thoughts on Chicago expanding its camera system? Share your feedback with us at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
