An automated construction zone speed monitoring pilot program officially launched Monday on several New York state highways, Gov. Kathy Hochul's office announced.

A total of 30 speed monitoring systems using radar will be used in active work zones along 20 highways maintained by the state Department of Transportation and 10 on the state Thruway.

The program will help enforce speed limits in highway construction and maintenance work zones, the governor's office said. It's a joint initiative between the New York State Department of Transportation and the New York State Thruway Authority.

"As we officially kick off construction season in New York as well as National Work Zone Awareness Week, I thank highway workers across the state who put their lives on the line to maintain and enhance the roads that we all rely on every day," Hochul said in a statement. "This new pilot program will be instrumental in encouraging safe driving habits in highway work zones and protecting the lives of those who help maintain a safe and reliable highway system."

Fines through the pilot program will be issued as follows:

• $50 for first violation
• $75 for second violation
• $100 for third and subsequent violations within 18 months of the first violation

Unpaid fines may result in a vehicle registration hold where drivers will not be able to renew their registrations without first paying their fines.

"Maintenance crews work each day mere inches away from high-speed traffic and put themselves in harm's way to ensure roads are safe for all drivers," Thruway Authority interim Executive Director Frank Hoare said. "It is everyone's responsibility to slow down and pay attention when driving in a work zone to keep these women and men safe. Work zone speed cameras are another tool in the toolbox to keep our employees and customers safe and I truly believe lives will be saved as a result."