Gurnee, IL – The Village of Gurnee has officially ended its red-light photo enforcement program, signaling a major change in local traffic safety strategies after 16 years of operation.
According to the Gurnee Police Department, the program concluded on July 5, 2025, after the expiration of the village’s contract with Redflex Traffic Systems Inc. (now Verra Mobility). Officials cited a thorough evaluation of long-term impact on traffic safety and operational challenges as reasons behind the decision.
Launched in 2009, the program was intended to reduce red-light violations and improve safety at high-crash intersections. According to Gurnee Police Chief Brian Smith, the initiative delivered measurable results. In the five years prior to the program’s launch (2004–2008), Gurnee averaged 1,424 traffic crashes annually, peaking at 1,521 in 2008. During the first five years of red-light camera enforcement (2009–2013), that average dropped to 967 crashes per year—a 32% reduction.
“This program was never about catching people, it was about protecting them,” Chief Smith said. “The revenue generated supported critical safety and infrastructure improvements. This program saved lives.”
While crash rates stayed below pre-2009 levels, Gurnee officials said they faced growing operational difficulties, including vendor support issues, maintenance delays, and the need to disable cameras during road construction. These challenges, along with a desire to explore alternative traffic safety tools, led to the decision not to renew the contract.
No new red-light camera violations will be issued after July 5, 2025. Citations for prior violations remain valid and must be resolved, and camera equipment is scheduled to be removed by early fall. The Gurnee Police Department will continue monitoring local traffic trends and may consider reintroducing photo enforcement or other safety measures if necessary.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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