SEPTA conducted a trial utilizing artificial intelligence technology to identify vehicles obstructing designated lanes along Chestnut and Walnut streets from April to June. The initial test revealed 32,000 instances of vehicles breaching stops in West Philly and Upper Darby, with an additional 4,000 vehicles blocking roadways in Center City.
President Jim Kenney endorsed a bill on Thursday night to expand the program beyond the trial phase. Once cameras are installed, individuals impeding bus stops or bus lanes in the extended Center City/University City area will be subject to fines.
Christopher Puchalsky from the Philadelphia Office of Transportation, Infrastructure, and Sustainability mentioned that while AI will identify offenders, human intervention will determine the issuance of citations. Ultimately, a law enforcement officer will classify the violation at the end of the day, as per Puchalsky.
SEPTA GM Leslie Richards highlighted that route obstructions lead to delays and significant financial losses for the transportation company annually.
The obstruction of vehicle stops by cars poses substantial challenges for individuals with disabilities. Latoya Maddox expressed the difficulties faced when trying to access vehicles while using a wheelchair.
Maddox emphasized the risks faced by people with disabilities due to the necessity of maneuvering around blocked vehicle entries.
In a similar fashion to speed monitors and red light cameras currently operational, the mounted devices on vehicles will capture instances of obstruction. A Philadelphia Parking Authority officer will review the footage and authorize a $100 penalty.
Mayor Jim Kenney characterized driving illegally as a display of “selfishness and laziness,” emphasizing the need for enforcement against such behaviors.
Mayor Kenney expressed frustration with double parking and unauthorized stops in bus lanes, highlighting the disruptive impact on traffic flow. He stressed the importance of enforcing traffic laws to maintain order on the roads.
Mayor Kenney announced the enactment of Bill No. 230489 to empower SEPTA in targeting improperly parked vehicles through camera-based enforcement technology on buses, aiming to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance road safety.
The implementation of the program is expected to take approximately a month, involving the issuance of requests for proposals, camera installation, and operational testing before enforcement commences.
Richard Lazer, the head of the Philadelphia Parking Authority, cited the effectiveness of speed cameras in reducing speeding incidents by 90% and red light cameras in decreasing red-light violations by 48% in intersections where they are deployed.
Lazer anticipates that bus-based cameras will significantly reduce congestion, enhance road safety, and deter unauthorized parking in bus lanes, facilitating smoother and safer travel throughout the city.
