NYC Expands Red-Light Cameras to 600 Intersections Across All Five Boroughs to Improve Street Safety

Mayor Zohran Mamdani announces completion of the citywide expansion as transportation data shows red-light running has declined by more than 80% at camera locations.

NEW YORK — NYC Arab Post | October 21, 2026

New York City Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and Department of Transportation Commissioner Mike Flynn announced Wednesday that the city has completed the installation of red-light cameras at 600 intersections across all five boroughs, marking a major milestone in efforts to reduce dangerous driving and improve street safety.

The expansion reaches the maximum number of intersections currently authorized under New York State law and is designed to protect pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and public transportation users.

## Significant Decline in Traffic Violations and Crashes

According to the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT), red-light cameras have reduced red-light running by more than 80% at locations where they are installed.

The department also reported a 65% reduction in T-bone crashes and a 49% decline in rear-end collisions at camera locations.

In addition, injuries resulting from rear-end crashes have dropped by nearly 60%, while injuries from T-bone collisions have decreased by 70% since camera installation.

NYC DOT data indicates that red-light running was involved in 22% of fatal crashes at intersections between 2023 and 2025, highlighting the continuing risks associated with dangerous driving behavior.

## Mayor Mamdani Emphasizes Prevention and Accountability

Mayor Mamdani stressed that red-light cameras are a proven tool for improving driver behavior, holding dangerous motorists accountable, and preventing crashes before they occur.

He said the completed expansion represents an important step toward making New York City's streets safer for everyone, including pedestrians, cyclists, drivers, and bus passengers.

NYC DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn also highlighted the importance of automated enforcement, noting that the program will help address the concerning increase in red-light running observed since the COVID-19 pandemic.

## Most Vehicles Receive No More Than Two Violations

According to NYC DOT data from 2025, 95% of vehicles recorded running red lights received no more than one or two violations, while fewer than 0.7% received five or more violations.

Approximately 39% of red-light camera violations were issued to vehicles registered outside New York City.

The department determines camera locations based on factors including past traffic crashes, injuries, and instances of red-light running, with particular consideration given to communities that have historically received fewer street-safety investments.

## Families and Elected Officials Support the Expansion

The announcement received support from elected officials, transportation advocates, and families affected by traffic fatalities.

Carmen Larino, a member of Families for Safe Streets, shared the heartbreaking story of losing her daughter Karina at an intersection four years ago. She emphasized the importance of expanding preventive safety measures to protect other families from similar tragedies.

Several state lawmakers also welcomed the program, describing automated enforcement as an important measure for protecting children, seniors, pedestrians, and other road users.

## Advocates Call for Further Expansion in 2027

Transportation Alternatives praised the city's completion of the 600-intersection expansion while calling on New York State lawmakers to authorize additional cameras.

The organization noted that more than 10,000 signalized intersections across the city remain outside the current program and encouraged lawmakers to consider reauthorization and further expansion during the 2027 legislative session.

The initiative is part of New York City's broader Vision Zero strategy, which seeks to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries through safer street design, improved enforcement, and public safety measures.

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Source: New York City Mayor's Office Press Release, October 21, 2026, and NYC Department of Transportation.

Photo Credit: © NYC DOT