Speed enforcement cameras are coming to state-owned highways.

The Colorado Department of Transportation launched the Colorado Speed Enforcement Program with cameras being installed along Colorado Highway 119 between Boulder and Longmont, where construction is taking place. Warnings will be issued starting July 21.

In 2024, there were 567 injuries and 31 fatalities in work zones across Colorado, nearly double the number of deaths in the previous year, according to CDOT.

The new Automated Vehicle Identification Systems (AVIS) cameras deployed in high-risk corridors will identify vehicles traveling an average of 10 mph or more over the posted speed limit.

“The rising number of work zone fatalities is unacceptable. Automated speed cameras take enforcement to the next level and can help prevent needless deaths with or without law enforcement presence,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol, in a news release. “Speeding remains a leading cause of crashes. Motorists must be reminded that slow is safe.”

Speeding vehicles will be photographed and timestamped at two points along the highway. The system then calculates the average speed between each camera. Vehicles traveling an average of 10 mph or more over the posted speed limit will be issued a $75 civil penalty.

“Work zones are high-risk areas with narrow and shifting lanes, closures and sudden stops, making speeding especially dangerous,” said CDOT Chief Engineer Keith Stefanik. “This program is about protecting lives, not punishing drivers. Enforcing compliance with posted speed limits means safer roads statewide for all.”

CDOT is focusing on construction work zones for now, but the program is expected to expand into school zones and other high-risk corridors in the future. According to CDOT, drivers can expect speed cameras to be installed along I-70 in the Floyd Hill construction zone.

There will be a warning period before civil penalties are enforced. Violators will receive only one warning, regardless of the number of times they violate the program. Warnings and notices will be mailed to the vehicle’s registered owner within 30 days of the violation.

CDOT emphasizes transparency in this initiative, according to the release. All active enforcement zones will be published on codot.gov, and each location will include a warning period of at least 30 days.

“Camera speed enforcement ahead” signs will also be posted at the entrance to every active work zone.