In a historic move for Minnesota traffic enforcement, the City of Minneapolis has announced the exact locations for the state’s first legal speed enforcement cameras. Starting in September 2025, the pilot program will install speed cameras at five high-risk intersections—each within 2,000 feet of a school and chosen based on crash data and equity factors.
Here are the first five camera locations in Minneapolis:
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Fremont Avenue North near West Broadway Avenue North
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18th Avenue Northeast near Central Avenue Northeast
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3rd Street North near 1st Avenue North
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Chicago Avenue South near Franklin Avenue East
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Nicollet Avenue South near 46th Street West
This marks the first time Minnesota has allowed the use of automated traffic enforcement since red-light cameras were struck down in 2007. But thanks to Minnesota Statute 169.147, passed in 2023, select cities like Minneapolis can now legally launch pilot programs.
The cameras will issue civil citations only, meaning no criminal record or license points. First-time offenders get a warning, while repeat violations will cost $40–$80 depending on speed. Drivers can also opt for a free traffic safety class instead of paying the fine. Privacy is prioritized—cameras will only capture rear license plates, not faces.
City officials say this is not about writing tickets—it's about reducing traffic deaths through the Vision Zero initiative, especially in areas with historically higher crash rates. If successful, the program could expand to 42 locations and may add red-light enforcement by 2029.
This traffic camera rollout is one of the biggest shifts in Minnesota transportation policy in decades—and every driver in Minneapolis needs to be aware.
What do you think—will these speed cameras make our streets safer? Let us know in the comments.
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