Eyes in the sky getting new lenses

Traffic cameras being upgraded at intersections along U.S. 412

Video cameras that detect traffic patterns on side roads that intersect with U.S. Highway 412 are being upgraded.

The state-installed traffic cameras along roads that intersect with U.S. 412 have had issues with the detection of cars. To combat the issue the city is upgrading to a heavier camera.

"The lights stay green on 412 unless a car comes on the side street -- the new camera will improve detection," said city electrical director Art Farine.

Upgrades to the side road camera began within the month, and are projected to continue through the end of the year.

"This is a side project that is being completed in between jobs and they are working as they can during the year," Farine said.

There will not be any upgrades to the cameras monitoring U.S. 412 this year because of budgetary constraints.

The state installed the cameras several years ago and are aware that light cameras have had some issues.

"We don't spec that specific type of camera anymore," said Randy Ort, spokesman for the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department. "We require heavier equipment."

Ort explained that the lighter cameras weren't detecting traffic as well because they were easily blown by the wind.

Though the state has moved to heavier cameras for new stoplight construction, the state said it is not responsible for updating to new hardware on existing highways.

"Initially, we install them but it's up to the city to maintain them," Ort said.

Despite the state's acknowledgement of the camera issues, they said that they were not aware that the city of Siloam Springs was still having issues with their stoplights.

"This is really the first we've heard about it," Ort said. "We haven't heard anything from the city on this issue in a long time -- if there are issues, we thought they were resolved a while ago."

The cameras are also no longer under warranty by the state.

General News on 09/28/2014