Press Releases
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 9, 2026
Contact: (212) 839-4850, press@dot.nyc.gov
NYC DOT Begins Activating Additional Red Light Cameras to Protect New Yorkers at City Intersections
City to begin activating red light cameras at 50 new intersections each week for the next five weeks, with goal of reaching 600 intersections by end of 2026
Red light cameras have proven to improve safety, reducing red-light running by 73 percent, T-bone crashes by 65 percent, and rear-end collisions by 49 percent
NEW YORK – New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) Commissioner Mike Flynn today announced that NYC DOT has begun activating additional red light cameras across the city to protect New Yorkers as they travel through intersections. NYC DOT will activate red light cameras at 50 new intersections per week over the next five weeks. Prior to the expansion that is now underway, red light cameras were in place at just 150 intersections—the maximum previously allowed under state law. The state legislature authorized the city to expand red light cameras to a total of 600 intersections. NYC DOT will complete the expansion to all 600 intersections by the end of 2026.
"Red light running is one of the most dangerous behaviors on our city's streets and puts all New Yorkers at risk. That is why we are taking immediate action to ramp up the city's red light camera program," said NYC DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn. "These cameras have reduced red light running 73 percent in the intersections where they are installed, and we will pair this heightened enforcement with ambitious street redesigns to make our streets safer."
The city's red light camera program has operated for 30 years and is highly effective. Where cameras have been installed, NYC DOT recorded a 73 percent decline in red-0light running, a 65 percent decline in T-bone crashes, and a 49 percent drop in rear-end collisions. These cameras help crack down on the most dangerous drivers on city streets; vehicles that receive five or more red light camera violations in a year are more than 100 times more likely to be involved in a crash that kills or seriously injures someone.
The program has also proven to change driver behavior and prevent repeat offenders. In 2023, 94 percent of vehicles caught running a red light received no more than one or two violations. Fewer than 0.5 percent of vehicles received five or more violations.
Additional cameras will be placed at intersections across the five boroughs based on criteria including crash history.
"New Yorkers should not have to fear for their lives every time they cross the street," said State Senator Andrew Gounardes. "I passed the law to expand the red light camera program for a simple reason: we know it works. The reality is, most drivers don't run red lights. But those drivers, along with everyone else, are safer when the ones who do are held accountable. Decades of data makes it clear: these cameras reduce crashes and save lives. Thanks to DOT for implementing this important program so more New Yorkers are safe on our streets, however they get around."
"This expansion of red light cameras in NYC will ensure the safety of many New Yorkers for years to come. It is proven that these cameras have reduced collisions, decreased the frequency of drivers running red lights, and improved overall driver behavior," said Assemblymember Jeffrey Dinowitz. "My legislation to increase the amount of red light cameras in our five boroughs has shown to be essential in keeping our streets safe. I applaud the NYC DOT for activating these new red light cameras swiftly and smoothly. By 2026, 600 intersections will be upgraded, improving public safety in countless neighborhoods. If you don't want a red light camera ticket, stop for a red light. These cameras will save lives."
"The data on red light cameras couldn't be more clear – they change driver behavior and save lives," said Councilmember Lincoln Restler. "The City Council was proud to help lead the way on life-saving legislation to quadruple the number of red light cameras in NYC, and now under the leadership of Mayor Mamdani and Commissioner Flynn, we will finally have cameras installed at 600 dangerous intersections to make our communities safer."
"Keeping New Yorkers safe at dangerous intersections must always be the priority, and any tool used to do that should be deployed thoughtfully and transparently," said Councilmember Selvena N. Brooks-Powers. "As the City expands red-light cameras, it's critical that placements are driven by crash data, paired with strong street design improvements, and regularly evaluated to ensure they are reducing injuries. I look forward to our continued partnership with the Department of Transportation to ensure this rollout delivers real safety benefits and is implemented equitably."
"Red light cameras save lives — and expanding this critical program will make streets and intersections safer across New York," said Ben Furnas, Executive Director of Transportation Alternatives. "For years, we've had red light cameras at just 150 intersections in New York City, and we've fought to reauthorize and expand this program. We're grateful to our legislators in Albany for passing this legislation, the governor for signing this bill to expand an already successful program, and DOT for upgrading hundreds of intersections with this technology. As we work towards reaching Vision Zero, we need every tool at our disposal, and red light cameras are an essential part of that work."
"In 2017, I was struck by a turning driver on New Year's Eve as I was crossing the street in Lower Manhattan. I continue to experience the physical and psychological trauma caused by this crash. We must take action to prevent others from living the confusion and pain of loss and serious injury caused by car crashes," said Families for Safe Streets Co-chair Kate Brockwehl. "Red light cameras are a quick and commonsense solution to preventing crashes and tragedy on our streets. We wholeheartedly support increasing the size and scope of the City's red light camera program, and we look forward to working with DOT to expand other street safety initiatives across the five boroughs."
"Red light cameras save lives. They're incredibly effective at changing behaviors, and they're a powerful tool in making our streets more secure," said Sara Lind, co-executive director at Open Plans. "Expanding the program to the full extent allowed by law will reduce crashes and avoid further tragic deaths. We commend DOT for taking action to keep New Yorkers moving safely around the city."
"Regional Plan Association (RPA) applauds NYC DOT's continued efforts to equitably enhance the safety of New York City streets," said Tiffany-Ann Taylor, VP of Transportation at RPA. "Activating these additional cameras expands the DOT's ability to reduce crashes and avoidable traffic violence by tracking down dangerous drivers to hold them accountable. RPA continues to support the DOT in changing driver behavior to get the city closer to its Vision Zero goals."