Forecast trims speed-camera revenue by roughly $137 million after lower yields and behavioral changes

The forecast office and the Washington State Department of Transportation have concluded that revenue from speed safety cameras is materially lower than originally estimated and recommended a roughly $137 million reduction in the forecast.

"We feel that the forecast should be reduced by about, 137,000,000," Dave Wright told the council, citing three factors: the original fiscal-note assumption of widespread non‑staffed camera facilities did not materialize (most facilities remain staffed), collection rates have run closer to 65% rather than the assumed 80%, and observed behavioral changes have reduced violations.

Wright said ERC and WSDOT prepared a white paper on the issue that has been shared with legislative staff. The office reflected the revision in the 'other' revenues bucket and noted the reduction is a substantial contributor to the net decrease projected in the next biennium.