I-64 Work Zone Speed Cameras Delayed, But Speeding Remains Rampant

Speed enforcement cameras along a dangerous stretch of Interstate 64 in New Kent County didn’t go live until August 12, due to a short delay caused by equipment issues and a legal technicality.

The cameras, set to monitor a 10-mile construction zone between mile markers 205 and 215, were originally scheduled to begin issuing citations on August 1. During a recent grace period, officials recorded alarming speeding trends.

“In 18 hours of operations, we’ve had over 3,500 violations,” said New Kent County Sheriff Lee Bailey. “One deputy was out for just 20 minutes this morning and recorded 72 violations.”

Once activated, the cameras will issue $100 fines to drivers traveling 11 mph or more over the posted 60 mph limit. Until then, deputies and Virginia State Police will rely on radar enforcement, where violators can face fines up to $500.

The delay stems partly from a conflict between county and state regulations. Current county ordinance allows speed cameras only in school zones, but state code authorizes their use on the interstate. 

The work zone has become increasingly hazardous. Barriers now prevent vehicles from veering into the median, causing crashes to bounce vehicles back into traffic. Bailey said the results are often “like bumper cars.”

Some violations have been extreme. “A trooper one morning stopped a driver going 106 mph,” Bailey noted.

A recent survey found more than 38,000 speeding violations in just five workdays within the zone. Officials hope the cameras will reduce speeds and prevent serious accidents.

“Our main goal is to slow people down and to make our highways safer for the motorists traveling the highways and the workers working the work zone,” Bailey said.