Beginning in October, Glenwood Springs will roll out automated speed cameras aimed at curbing speeding and reducing crashes on city streets, according to a city news release.

Drivers can expect a 30-day warning period beginning in October, with citations set to start in November.

The program will launch with five total cameras installed at the 100 block of Midland Avenue near Dairy Queen, two at 601 Midland Avenue near Yampah Mountain High School, North Midland Avenue at County Road 117, and the 3500 block of South Glen Avenue.

The new cameras will be marked with signage in line with state law. A ticket from an automated enforcement device carries the same legal weight as one issued by an officer and will be mailed to the vehicle’s registered owner. Vehicle owners are responsible for any citations, even if someone else was driving.

“One of the most frequently received concerns City Council and city staff receive is regarding speeding and requests for more enforcement across town,” City Manager Steve Boyd said in the release.

Speeding is one of the leading factors in fatal and serious crashes in Glenwood Springs. Corridors approved for cameras were chosen based on crash data, reports of reckless driving and community complaints. More locations could be added in the coming years.

“Speeding is a significant concern in our community and takes away from the quality of life for our residents,” Deputy Police Chief John Hassell said in the release. “We know from experience that speeding influences the injury severity of crashes when they occur. It’s everyone’s responsibility to drive safely and obey the speed limit.”

Transportation Engineer Lee Barger said in the release that automated enforcement complements roadway design, engineering and education. “Crash data and conversations with our community consistently raise red flags around speeding. Automated speed enforcement goes hand in hand with safer streets where no one is killed or seriously injured in a crash.”

The new program follows a state law expanding local authority to designate Automated Vehicle Identification corridors. Glenwood Springs has also had a dedicated traffic enforcement officer since 2023.

“We are fortunate to have Officer Jamy Cary who focuses exclusively on traffic enforcement and collision investigations. These speed cameras will assist our officers in enforcing safe speeds, which will advance our community’s Vision Zero goal of eliminating fatal and serious injury crashes,” Chief of Public Safety Joseph Deras said in the release.

Officials emphasized in the release that the program is about safety, not revenue. Any revenue collected will first cover operational costs, with remaining funds directed to public safety and transportation needs.

A map of camera locations and additional information is available at gwsco.info/SpeedCameras.