Crash Concerns Prompt New Traffic Cameras at Barnett and Highland

MEDFORD, Ore. (Mar. 9, 2026) — The Medford Police Department plans to activate new photo enforcement traffic safety equipment at the intersection of Barnett Road and Highland Drive following an increase in crashes at the location.

Crash data shows the Barnett and Highland intersection has a high number of reported collisions in recent years, identifying it as a priority location for additional traffic safety enforcement, police said.

The photo enforcement system is expected to become operational in mid-March, pending final testing and calibration. Officials say March 16 is the tentative “go live” date, though it could change depending on testing results. Initially, only select approaches at the intersection will be monitored.

As with all new photo enforcement sites, the city will implement a warning period before issuing citations. The warning phase is intended to give drivers time to adjust to the new equipment and encourage voluntary compliance with traffic laws.

When the Barnett and Highland system becomes active, photo enforcement currently operating at the intersection of Stewart Avenue and Barnett Road will be turned off. Police said safety conditions at that intersection have improved since cameras were first installed there.

Traffic safety research and local experience show photo enforcement often creates a “halo effect,” where improved driver behavior extends beyond the monitored intersection and contributes to safer conditions along nearby corridors.

Although enforcement will be discontinued at Stewart and Barnett once the Highland and Barnett cameras are operational, the equipment will remain in place until an anticipated Oregon Department of Transportation construction project at Barnett and Highland is completed. Officials said keeping the equipment in place will help minimize enforcement interruptions during the project.

Police said they will continue to monitor crash data and traffic patterns and may adjust photo enforcement locations over time to address areas with the greatest safety concerns.

According to officials, the program is intended to improve roadway safety and encourage drivers to follow traffic laws, helping make Medford’s streets safer for everyone.