In a move to eliminate speed cameras, the Ontario government under Premier Doug Ford is set to remove them within the next two weeks. The legislation banning speed cameras was passed recently, with uncertainties surrounding the timeline for implementing the alternative traffic calming measures endorsed by the premier.
Premier Ford argues that speed cameras are ineffective in reducing speed, despite contradictory evidence from municipalities and researchers at the Hospital for Sick Children. He advocates for the use of speed bumps, roundabouts, and flashing signs as more impactful solutions. However, Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria could not specify when these measures would replace speed cameras.
Minister Sarkaria mentioned the installation of temporary and larger signage in all municipal speed camera-affected zones before the deadline. The government plans to collaborate with municipalities in the coming weeks to explore additional traffic calming measures and provide funding support.
Ford’s proposal includes encouraging the use of speed bumps, raised crosswalks, and roundabouts, with a new fund expected to offset associated costs. Nevertheless, specific funding details have not been disclosed by the government.
Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward expressed concerns about the lack of clarity regarding the fund for alternative measures, emphasizing the need for safety initiatives to be in place before removing speed cameras. She highlighted the efficacy of speed cameras in shifting costs from taxpayers to violators, emphasizing the importance of safety measures.
Opposition leaders, including NDP Leader Marit Stiles and Liberal parliamentary leader John Fraser, criticized the speed camera removal decision. They raised apprehensions about potential safety gaps during the transition and highlighted evidence supporting the effectiveness of speed cameras in enhancing community safety.
Premier Ford’s campaign against speed cameras intensified after 17 cameras were vandalized in Toronto over a two-day period. The legislative move to ban speed cameras was embedded in a red tape reduction bill, fast-tracked by the government, limiting public discussions and hearings.
