Kingston’s School Zone Speed Cameras Are Bringing in Big Money

Kingston's school zone speed cameras are doing exactly what they were designed to do—catch speeding drivers. But just a few months after the cameras began issuing live tickets, they're also bringing in far more money than city leaders expected.

Speed Cameras Making Big Money in Kingston, NY

Since the cameras officially went live back on April 20, the City of Kingston has issued 14,682 school zone speed camera violations, according to Hudson Valley One. That's an average of about 272 speeding tickets every school day.

Speed Cameras in Kingston, NY

With each violation carrying at least a $50 fine, the cameras have already generated an estimated $734,100 in gross revenue in just over three months—and that's before factoring in the additional $25 late fee for unpaid tickets.

Where Does All That Money Go?

Before you assume Kingston is pocketing every dollar, that's not exactly how the program works.

Under Kingston's agreement with Jenoptik Mobility Systems Inc., the company that installed and now operates the AI-powered camera system, 30% of the revenue helps cover the cameras, maintenance and administration. The remaining 70% goes to the City of Kingston.

Despite the growing pile of revenue, city leaders continue to stress that the cameras aren't intended to be a cash grab.

"The City of Kingston would like to thank everyone in advance for their cooperation in slowing down in our designated school zones," Mayor Steve Noble said. "Your compliance helps to keep children safe."

And if drivers actually slow down and stop getting tickets? The city says that's the ultimate goal.

Speed Cameras in Kingston, NY

The Cameras Are Bringing In More Than Anyone Expected

Back when Kingston adopted its 2026 budget, officials projected the speed camera program would bring in about $200,000 for the entire year. Instead, the cameras have already blown past that number with several months still left to go.

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Because of the unexpected revenue, city leaders are now figuring out the best way to use it. According to reports, the city is exploring the creation of a new Traffic Safety Capital Reserve Fund. The reserve would be used exclusively for one-time traffic safety improvements, including roadway upgrades, bicycle infrastructure, and pedestrian safety projects. The goal is to pay for those improvements without borrowing money or increasing taxes.

Speed Cameras Return for Summer School in Kingston

Just because school's out for the summer doesn't mean the speed cameras are taking a vacation.

Kingston's school zone speed cameras will be back in operation during summer school on July 30 and August 19. The cameras will be active at JFK School from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and at Kingston High School from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.