Drivers may receive tickets by mail

SNOQUALMIE PASS, Wash. - Citations have been mailed to 169 vehicle owners whose cars were speeding through the work zone on Interstate 90 at Snoqualmie Pass. The $137 citations will begin arriving in mailboxes soon for drivers caught speeding between Sept. 17 and 21.

The Washington State Department of Transportation recently started using automated speed enforcement in the I-90 work zone to help reduce speeds and improve safety for workers and travelers.

Roadside signs let drivers know a small sport utility vehicle parked near the highway is monitoring speeds in the eastbound and westbound directions. A camera inside the SUV captures the rear license plates of vehicles going over the posted speed limit.

The Washington State Patrol matches the license plate with the Department of Licensing's database and issues a $137 fine to the registered owner. Those receiving citations should follow the instructions inside to submit payment or contest the infraction.

By keeping within the 60 mph speed limit, those driving through the I-90 Snoqualmie Pass East - Hyak to Keechelus Dam project are helping keep travelers and construction crews who are building a new, more reliable six-lane highway just a bit safer.

More information, a sample infraction, question-and-answer section and public-feedback form are available at www.wsdot.wa.gov/safety/ATSC.

WSDOT plans to keep the automated speed enforcement in the I-90 Snoqualmie Pass work zone until construction stops for winter.