Gavin Newsom mulls bringing in additional velocity cameras on Pacific Coast Freeway

Gavin Newsom is weighing whether or not to approve a brand new crackdown on dashing alongside one of many state’s most iconic roadway, with Lengthy Seaside poised to put in velocity cameras on Pacific Coast Freeway.

State lawmakers handed Senate Invoice 1279, which might permit Lengthy Seaside to place two traps alongside an eight-mile stretch that officers say has develop into a lethal hotspot.

The stretch accounts for about 20% of all site visitors deaths in Lengthy Seaside since 2020, with 39 of town’s 192 site visitors fatalities occurring there.

At the very least three folks have additionally been killed in speed-related crashes alongside the hall in the course of the first eight months of 2026, in accordance with Damian Kevitt, govt director of Streets Are For Everybody.

“Everybody ought to have the ability to journey alongside PCH safely, whether or not they’re driving to work, strolling to high school, biking to the park or just crossing the road of their neighborhood,” state Sen. Lena Gonzalez (D) stated, in accordance with NCBLA.

“By including this hall to California’s velocity security digicam pilot program, SB 1279 will give Lengthy Seaside one other confirmed device to scale back harmful dashing, make our streets safer and save lives,” Gonzalez stated.

The cameras would routinely {photograph} the rear license plates of autos caught dashing, whereas the data can be stored confidential. Drivers would even be warned via indicators that the cameras are working.

The system would come with a grace interval for first-time offenders. A driver caught going 11 to fifteen mph over the posted velocity restrict would obtain a warning somewhat than a ticket the primary time.

Repeat offenders may face fines starting from $50 to $200 relying on how far over the restrict they’re touring. Drivers caught going greater than 100 mph may obtain a $500 ticket.

Drivers with low incomes can be eligible for decreased fines, cost plans or, in some circumstances, group service as a substitute of paying the total penalty.

Kevitt stated the cameras are wanted rapidly given the variety of deaths already recorded this 12 months.

“We applaud Senator Gonzalez for her work to get SB 1279 to the Governor’s desk. It’s crucial that these velocity security methods be applied as quickly as doable to assist stop additional lack of life,” Kevitt advised the outlet.

Lengthy Seaside already has authorization to deploy velocity cameras in different areas, however PCH was particularly excluded beneath present state regulation.

SB 1279 would take away that roadblock — however the cameras should not a carried out deal but.

Newsom should resolve whether or not to signal or veto the invoice by Sept. 30. If he indicators it, Lengthy Seaside may transfer ahead with the two-camera pilot program on the scenic coastal freeway.

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