Bend Police roll out automatic traffic cameras at three intersections, here’s how they work

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Bend police have officially activated new automatic traffic cameras at three intersections as part of a pilot program aimed at improving safety and reducing crashes. Below is a map showing where these new cameras are located.

KTVZ News spoke to Bend Police to understand how the cameras work.

Each intersection now has several cameras operating in different ways. A lower-quality video camera passively records the intersection, while two additional cameras activate when a driver speeds or runs a red light, capturing both the front and back license plates of the vehicle.

Captain Brian Beekman with Bend Police said the system is designed to help address community concerns about reckless driving and limited officer availability.

“I've gone to several recent community townhall forums where the number one issue from residents is traffic safety,” Beekman said. “We have a limited number of officers. We can’t be everywhere at once. This is a multi-pronged approach the City Council and police department are taking to try and improve overall safety.”

Bend Police own and manage all the data and video collected by the cameras. The department plans several public presentations to explain how the technology works and answer questions.

The next meeting is scheduled for this Thursday at 5 p.m. at the Larkspur Community Center.