Denver to Install Permanent Speed Cameras on Federal and Alameda to Curb Traffic Fatalities
Denver is set to introduce permanent automated speed cameras on Federal Boulevard and Alameda Avenue later this year as part of the city’s ongoing effort to improve road safety. The initiative is a key element of Mayor Mike Johnston’s commitment to “double down” on Vision Zero, a citywide campaign to eliminate traffic deaths. According to traffic enforcement officials, reducing speed is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious accidents, and these high-risk corridors have seen a significant number of fatalities and injuries in recent years.
City leaders have already implemented several safety measures along Federal and Alameda, including increased signage, retimed traffic signals, and speed feedback signs. This spring, a new awareness campaign featuring billboards will urge drivers to slow down. However, the most impactful change will be the installation of automated speed enforcement systems, which were previously limited to school zones and work areas. Thanks to a recent state law, these cameras can now be permanently placed on high-traffic roads where speeding is a persistent issue.
Federal and Alameda rank among Denver’s most dangerous streets, with seven fatalities and nearly 40 serious injuries reported in 2024 alone. Officials say drivers frequently exceed the posted limits, and police have recorded speeds of up to 60 mph in 35 mph zones. While speed cameras often face criticism as revenue generators, state lawmakers have capped fines at $40 per violation—doubling near schools—and mandated clear signage alerting drivers to their presence.
To ensure fairness in enforcement, the city is carefully selecting camera locations to avoid disproportionately impacting specific communities. Officials are studying traffic patterns across both affluent and diverse neighborhoods, with possible placements near Colfax on Federal and near Washington Park and Lowry on Alameda. Public input will play a role in the rollout, and community discussions are set to begin soon. City Council may take action by summer to officially designate speed camera corridors as required by state law.
