An earlier version of this article incorrectly said that Maryland would allow all of its jurisdictions to use cameras to catch speeders and would set up cameras in highway work zones. The General Assembly did not pass a measure authorizing those actions.
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No Rest Stops For the Weary, But Just for a While
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-- Kathryn Gallanis, Fairfax
Virginia, unlike Maryland and the District, has no program allowing use of cameras to catch speeders. It should experiment with one by allowing local jurisdictions to develop pilot programs, just as Maryland did with Montgomery County.
The programs aren't perfect. I've gotten complaints about placement of the cameras, the local speed limits and verification of the license plate numbers seen in the photos. I think the warning signs should be bigger and bolder than those little black-and-white signs, particularly along commuter routes.
Many drivers continue to suspect that the cameras are just a way of raising revenue for governments. I don't see it. These systems are not a great way to raise revenue.
Maryland now will allow local jurisdictions to set up programs similar to the one in Montgomery County and will allow placement of cameras in highway work zones statewide. This is a logical next step.
Virginia legislators should watch this and consider their own experiment during the next General Assembly.
Sound Policy
Dear Dr. Gridlock:
If Metro installed video monitors with sound, wouldn't that be a violation of its own rules that state it is unlawful to play audio or video devices without headphones?
I do not want to be forced to listen to advertisements on the train.
-- Chris Merther, Clarksville
It's highly unlikely that any deal with an advertising company to install video displays in rail stations would allow audio ads.
Metro board members took an immediate dislike to that idea. If a new display system were installed -- and that's still a while away -- the audio information would almost certainly consist of transit system announcements.
Music at the station entrances is great, but the fare gates should mark the sound barrier.
Dr. Gridlock appears Thursday in the Extras and Sunday in the Metro section. You can send e-mails todrgridlock@washpost.com. Include your name, home community and phone numbers.
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