Binghamton drivers who've spotted the newly-installed electronic speed display signs around the city may be wondering if the next step will be adding cameras.

Speed cameras now are used sparingly in New York state but some traffic safety and law enforcement officials believe they are useful in encouraging motorists to slow down.

Mayor Jared Kraham said ten signs have been put up in recent weeks. He said when he was campaigning, a man urged him to try to do something about persistent speeding near Recreation Park on the West Side.

An electronic display sign near Recreation Park, where the speed limit is 25 mph. Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News
An electronic display sign near Recreation Park, where the speed limit is 25 mph. Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News
loading...

Kraham said a pilot program that started with one sign on Pennsylvania Avenue appeared to work well, so the initiative was expanded.

The mayor said he's noticed drivers often tap the brakes when they a sign reveals they're exceeding the speed limit.

Kraham said the goal is to remind motorists that "you're driving in a neighborhood - this is not a racetrack."

In 1987, Binghamton Mayor Juanita Crabb launched a crackdown with the installation of signs that warned drivers: "Don't Even Think of Speeding on Riverside Drive."

Kraham said his initiative "isn't quite to the level" of that short-lived campaign but there is "the same intent" to remind people that they are traveling through a residential community.

As for the possibility of future speed cameras in Binghamton, Kraham indicated that's not something being considered. He pointed out there are specific state restrictions on the use of speed cameras.

The mayor noted the speed display signs are not tracking license plates or other vehicle information.

The display signs now are in use on Riverside Drive, Beethoven Street, Grand Boulevard, West End Avenue, Court Street, North Street, Prospect Street, Conklin Avenue, Vestal Avenue and Park Avenue.

Kraham said more signs might be installed in the future.

Enter your number to get our free mobile app

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.

103 iconic photos that capture 103 years of world history

Stacker gathered some of the most iconic images from the past 103 years, beginning in 1918 and leading up to 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

LOOK: 50 songs you won't believe are turning 50 this year

From classic rock anthems to disco hits and everything in between, Stacker surveyed Billboard's Hot 100 list of top songs in 1973 and highlighted the top 50.

LOOK: Explore the iconic buildings from every state

From colonial homesteads to mansions by the ocean, iconic buildings define every state in the country. Stacker compiled this list of notable examples from historic and government reports and news articles. 

More From 98.1 The Hawk