By BJ Austin
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-839622.mp3
Dallas, TX – Frisco's red light cameras turned off a midnight Wednesday. KERA's BJ Austin says the city chose not to renew the camera operator's contract until state lawmakers decide if the intersection cameras go or stay.
Frisco has decided to sit-out the legislative tug of war over red light cameras the revenue generated and differing views over whether the cameras are a public safety enhancement or a devious revenue-raiser for cities. Police Lt. Ray Jewett says the cameras have worked well in Frisco.
Jewett: We have seen positive results as far as our significant injury-related crash reductions at those intersections where the cameras have been utilized. We've seen an increase in safety at those intersections.
Jewett says if lawmakers keep the cameras, Frisco will put the contract our for bid again. But until it's decided, the cameras will be turned off
Several surrounding cities, including Plano, Irving and Richardson, had scrambled to renew their red light camera contracts ahead of any NEW legislation.