AI cameras are being implemented on all AC Transit lines to target illegally parked vehicles, with the goal of improving safety and efficiency for bus riders. The new bus-mounted camera system, developed by San Francisco-based company Hayden AI, uses artificial intelligence to detect illegal parking at bus stops and illegal driving in bus lanes. This technology will enable law enforcement to give warnings to drivers before implementing fines for violations, starting on October 7.
AC Transit has been testing the new camera system on its highest ridership line since June, replacing an older system that required manual activation. During the trial period, the new cameras identified over 1,100 potential violations, resulting in a significant increase in citations issued by the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office. This success has prompted AC Transit to expand the program to 100 buses, with plans to eventually cover the entire bus network.
The use of AI-powered cameras has proven to be effective in enforcing bus lane laws and improving overall safety for bus passengers. According to a staff memo to the AC Transit Board of Directors, the Hayden AI technology produced nearly 10 citations per bus every day during a trial in 2022. This increased enforcement has highlighted the importance of expanding the use of AI cameras across the entire bus network to ensure compliance with traffic laws.
To address privacy concerns, AC Transit has assured the public that the cameras will only focus on the road and will not record anything inside the bus. Additionally, the cameras will not be equipped with facial recognition software. The agency has also outlined strict guidelines for the handling of video footage, ensuring that any recordings of violations are destroyed within 60 days of resolution.
In terms of cost, AC Transit has entered into a three-year contract with Hayden AI, where the tech company will receive a share of citation revenue up to $2,500 per bus per month. This revenue-sharing model aims to offset installation costs and incentivize the use of AI technology to improve bus lane enforcement.
Overall, the implementation of AI cameras on all AC Transit lines represents a significant step towards enhancing safety and efficiency for bus riders. By leveraging advanced technology to enforce traffic laws and reduce illegal parking, AC Transit is demonstrating a commitment to improving the overall transit experience for passengers.