New traffic officers around Prichard highways

PRICHARD, Ala. (WALA) - The City of Prichard partnered with a private company named iTraffic to help catch people speeding and generate revenue for the city.

“The iTraffic program has followed through with $50,000 so we can purchase the vehicles. Two vehicles right now that we'll utilize between four officers which will come from our normal routine patrol officers we have,” said Prichard’s Mayor Troy Ephriam.

Training for the new iTraffic program in the city of Prichard started January 10, 2013, and it's not just going to affect Prichard residents.

Anyone traveling along interstates I-65 and I-165 will need to keep a closer eye on the speedometer.

"People who are not necessarily (Prichard) citizens, but people who are coming from other areas traveling north and southbound on our interstate who are going excessive high speeds, dangerous high speeds," said Ephraim.

He said the officers will also be patrolling in other areas than just the interstates. The city is also planning on hiring four to five more patrol officers to fill the void according to officials.

Prichard officials expect to gain up to $400,000 a year through this enterprise and money from the tickets will be divvied up between the city and iTraffic.

Mayor Ephriam said if the program is successful, then in a few months, iTraffic will install speed cameras along the interstate.

As of January 16, 2013, iTraffic's website said the company is donating some of the fine money collected to the family of fallen Mobile Officer Steven Green. When FOX10 checked with iTraffic officials, they said that deal was previously worked out with former police Chief Jimmie Gardner, and it is no longer in the works.