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Red light cameras are officially coming to Bartow, Florida, and local drivers are already taking notice. Starting April 21st, 2025, eight high-traffic intersections will be monitored by automated enforcement systems. Whether you’re commuting daily, passing through, or live in the area, understanding where these cameras are—and how they work—can save you time, money, and hassle.
Why Bartow?
According to Bartow Police Chief Bryan Dorman and Assistant City Manager Mark Herr, traffic in the city is surprisingly heavy. Herr estimates that vehicles make about 100,000 trips through Bartow every day. This is due in large part to the presence of government buildings and the convergence of three major highways:
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State Road 60
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U.S. Highway 98
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U.S. Highway 17
With so much traffic, the city is turning to red light cameras as a way to enhance safety and reduce accidents at some of its busiest intersections.
New Red Light Camera Locations in Bartow
As of April 21st, 2025, Bartow will activate 16 red light cameras at the following eight intersections:
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Highway 98 (Broadway Avenue) at State Road 60 (Van Fleet Drive)
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State Road 60 (Van Fleet Drive) at Wilson Avenue
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State Road 60 (Van Fleet Drive) at Crown Avenue
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Van Fleet Drive at U.S. Highway 17
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U.S. Highway 17 at Main Street
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U.S. Highway 17 at Wabash Street
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U.S. Highway 17 at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard
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U.S. Highway 17 at Georgia Street
The cameras will be operated by Verra Mobility, a company that specializes in automated traffic enforcement nationwide.
How Red Light Cameras Work
Red light cameras automatically capture images and video of vehicles that enter intersections after the light turns red. If you run the light, a snapshot of your license plate is taken, and a citation is mailed to the registered owner.
How Much Is a Red Light Ticket in Bartow?
A red light camera ticket in Bartow carries a $158 fine. You’ll typically have 30 days to pay the ticket or contest it. Failing to take action can result in additional penalties and possible holds on your vehicle registration.
Are Red Light Cameras Legal in Florida?
Yes. Under Florida state law, municipalities like Bartow are authorized to install and operate red light cameras as long as they follow certain rules—such as posting signs that notify drivers of camera enforcement zones and ensuring a proper review process for issuing citations.
Pros and Cons of Red Light Cameras
✅ Pros
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Improved Safety: Red light cameras help deter red-light running, one of the leading causes of T-bone and side-impact collisions.
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High-Risk Intersections Monitored: Cameras are placed at locations with significant traffic flow and crash history.
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Enforces Accountability: With 100,000 daily trips through Bartow, enforcement helps protect both residents and commuters.
❌ Cons
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Public Debate: Some citizens argue red light cameras are more about generating revenue than improving safety.
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Sudden Stops: There's concern over increased rear-end collisions due to drivers stopping abruptly to avoid getting a ticket.
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Privacy Concerns: Automated enforcement brings up questions about surveillance and data use.
Tips to Avoid Getting a Red Light Camera Ticket
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Follow Traffic Signals Carefully: Always stop at red lights, even before making a right turn on red.
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Slow Down at Yellow Lights: Don’t try to beat the light; yellow means prepare to stop.
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Pay Attention to Signs: Bartow will post signs warning drivers about intersections monitored by cameras.
Final Thoughts
As traffic in Bartow continues to grow due to major highways and government activity, the city is stepping up enforcement with red light cameras starting April 21st, 2025. While opinions on these cameras vary, one thing is certain: following traffic laws not only keeps you safe—it helps you avoid costly fines.
Whether you're a local or just passing through, make sure you're aware of these new camera locations and drive cautiously through Bartow's busiest intersections.
