Big Blue Bus Cameras Will Capture Violators Blocking Bus Lanes or Stops
Starting Sept. 1, drivers who block bus lanes or bus stops in Santa Monica will face $293 fines under a new automated enforcement program launched by the city’s Department of Transportation and Police Department.
The Automated Bus Lane and Bus Stop Enforcement (ABLE) program equips Big Blue Bus vehicles with two front-facing cameras, including license plate recognition technology, to detect and record illegally parked cars. Registered vehicle owners will then receive citations by mail.
The rollout follows a 60-day warning period that began July 1, during which violators were issued notices but no fines. In that time, ABLE identified 352 illegal parking incidents in bus lanes and 777 at bus stops.
“The number of violations detected by ABLE during the warning period is eye-catching, yet not surprising,” Department of Transportation Director Anuj Gupta said. “It underscores the urgent need for programs like ABLE that help enforce existing laws designed to keep our communities moving safely and reliably. Clear bus lanes and stops will help us deliver more efficient service for thousands of Big Blue Bus riders every day.”
City officials say even a single vehicle parked illegally can delay up to 60 riders, create accessibility problems for passengers with disabilities, and pose safety risks for pedestrians and motorists. The impacts are felt most by seniors, students, low-income residents, and others who depend on public transit.
By keeping bus corridors clear, Santa Monica officials say ABLE will advance the city’s goals of building a more efficient and equitable transit system while reinforcing priorities for clean streets, safe neighborhoods, and sustainable transportation.
