More Speed Cameras Coming to MTA Bridges and Tunnels: What NY Drivers Need to Know
The State of New York is continuing its push for safer roads—and more automated enforcement. As part of the newly passed $254 billion state budget, speed cameras will soon be installed in work zones at MTA-operated bridges and tunnels, including the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, Queens-Midtown Tunnel, and Hugh L. Carey Tunnel.
This is an extension of the automated work zone speed camera program launched in 2022. Now, it’s being expanded and extended through 2031.
What’s Changing?
If you drive through MTA facilities where road work is being done, you may see speed cameras clocking drivers. These aren’t just for show. If you’re recorded speeding in a posted work zone, you’ll receive a “notice of liability” in the mail—not a traditional traffic ticket, but a civil fine.
Here's how the fines work:
$50 for the first violation
$75 for a second violation within 18 months
$100 for each subsequent violation
These notices do not add points to your license and will not appear on your driving record. However, they can add up quickly—and unpaid fines may lead to a hold on your vehicle registration. So while these tickets are technically civil, they can still cause headaches.
Why Is New York Doing This?
The State says this is about protecting highway workers. And yes, anyone who’s driven past an active work zone knows how vulnerable those workers are, often just a few feet from high-speed traffic. According to MTA officials, the presence of speed cameras already led to reductions in speeding near construction areas since the program’s initial rollout.
But there’s also another side: MONEY. These cameras are also part of the State’s effort to fund the MTA’s long-term projects, including major infrastructure repairs and upgrades. So while the safety argument is valid, this is also about generating revenue. With Congestion Pricing in jeopardy, other revenue streams are needed.
What This Means for You
If you’re one of my many clients who commute through New York City and Long Island, this is a change you need to be aware of—especially if you travel through tunnels or over bridges during peak traffic hours. It’s easy to lose focus or fail to notice speed reductions in construction zones.
A few takeaways:
-Pay attention to signage in work zones. Temporary speed limits will be enforced by cameras whether you see workers present or not.
-Understand that these tickets are civil—but they can still impact you. They don’t affect your license, but they hit your wallet, and if you ignore them, they may block your registration renewal.
- This is not the same as a traditional speeding ticket.* You won’t necessarily havr to go to court for these, and they won’t involve points or insurance increases.
Can You Fight These Camera Tickets?
These camera-based violations don’t go through the usual traffic court process. However, there are limited opportunities to challenge them if:
* The vehicle in the picture wasn’t yours
* You weren’t driving at the time - you might be able to shift responsibility to the driver
* The plate number was incorrect
* There was a technical malfunction
Still, for most drivers, prevention is the best policy. Stick to the speed limit—especially in construction zones.
If you’ve received a traditional speeding ticket, a cell phone ticket, or any violation that adds points to your license or threatens your driving privileges, give me a call. With over 30 years of experience helping New Yorkers fight traffic tickets, I’ll give your case the personal attention it deserves.
📞 Michael E. Beer, Esq.
www.5townstraffic.com
(516) 569-4107
Fighting for your license—one ticket at a time.
