THE VALLEY – The state Department of Transportation is now using a speed camera to enforce speed limits near work zones on Route 8, a spokeswoman for the department confirmed.
“A stationary unit has been deployed on Route 8 as work on the Route 8 Design Build Project continues,” wrote Eva Zymaris, the spokeswoman, in an email. “It’s important to note that the work zone speed camera technology is only active when active work is taking place.”
The use of speed cameras started earlier this month. Installation started around Sept. 6, according to a letter reposted to Facebook by Seymour First Selectwoman Annmarie Drugonis.
The exact location of the camera can change depending on where work is taking place.
However, Zymaris said signs will be in place to let drivers know of a camera ahead, and you can receive updates on Route 8 construction work by visiting the Route 8 Design Build webpage.
Click here for a map showing Route 8 construction work.
The camera will take a photo when it detects a vehicle traveling more than 10 miles per hour above the posted speed limit, according to a frequently asked questions page. Drivers will be given a warning for a first offense and fined $75 for offenses afterward.
Vehicles captured traveling at 85 miles per hour or more will be sent a $75 fine, regardless of whether it’s the first offense, the page says.
According to the page, cameras only take photos of cars when a violation is detected. Occupants inside the vehicle “will automatically be removed or obscured from any stored image,” the page says.
The program is separate from municipal speed cameras that are under discussion in Ansonia, Derby and Seymour. Local speed cameras require state approval, but are managed by the town. The Route 8 work zone camera is managed by the state.
Currently, there are no local speed cameras in any of the listed towns.
The program is also different from automated license plate reader (ALPR) programs, such as those made by companies Flock Safety and Rekor Systems. ALPR programs attempt to capture license plate data for all vehicles that pass by, according to the Department of Homeland Security, while speed cameras only capture images of vehicles traveling above a certain speed.
The purpose of the Route 8 camera is to prevent work zone crashes, injuries and fatalities, according to the state department of transportation website.
There were 5,586 crashes and 18 fatalities in Connecticut work zones between 2020 and 2025, according to the office of Governor Ned Lamont. Among the fatalities was Andrew DiDomenico, a 26-year-old construction worker who was struck and killed by a drunk driver in 2024 in a Wallingford work zone.
“We’re reminding the public of the important role they play in keeping work zones and Connecticut’s roadways safe,” Zymaris wrote. “By slowing down, moving over, ditching the distractions, and driving sober, we can prevent crashes and ensure safer roads for everyone.”