Speeding in this work zone could get you a notice in the mail

INDIANAPOLIS – Drivers caught speeding through a major construction zone on the northeast side are getting warning notices in the mail.

It’s part of the Indiana Department of Transportation’s “Safe Zones” program, which puts speed cameras on the interstate where crews are working.

INDOT said it saw a 70% reduction in speeding when it installed the cameras along a busy work zone on I-70 in Hancock County over the summer.

Drivers will see signs saying “Speed limit, photo enforced” while passing through the construction zone at the I-465 and I-69 interchange. Drivers caught going more than 11 mph over the posted speed limit will get a notice in the mail.

Right now, the “pre-enforcement” phase is underway. That means drivers are receiving speed warnings as a courtesy. Once that period ends, repeated offenses could result in fines of up to $150. INDOT didn’t say when enforcement would begin.

Drivers are still getting used to the idea.

“I personally don’t have an issue with it because it’s about safety,” said driver T.J. Davis. “Everybody deserves to make it home to their family or to make it to their work safely. Safety is first for me, personally.”

“I think that’s pretty cool, so it can keep the safety of the people working on the highway and stuff,” said Jorge Morales, another driver. “I know there’s a lot of people that drive pretty crazy out there.”

Other travelers are frustrated with continued construction on the northeast side for the “Clear Path 465” project. It’s now in its third year.

“You don’t know which way the traffic pattern is going to change on an almost daily or weekly basis,” said driver Sunnie Santiago. “I think they need to get that more into consideration before they start worrying about spending more of our tax dollars on cameras. How about we just get the jobs finished?”

“Clear Path 465” construction is set to continue through the end of the year. The project aims to add more travel lanes, ramp lanes and bridges to ease traffic congestion and improve safety along the busy interstate corridor.