In a significant move, the Ontario government, led by Premier Doug Ford, has approved legislation to eliminate speed cameras across the province within a fortnight. Although the exact timeline for implementing the premier’s proposed alternative traffic control measures remains uncertain, Ford has expressed his skepticism about the effectiveness of speed cameras in reducing speeding, despite conflicting evidence from various sources, including municipalities and researchers from the Hospital for Sick Children.
Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria acknowledged that the transition to new measures, such as speed bumps, roundabouts, and enhanced signage, is still pending. Temporary and more prominent signage will be installed in all areas currently monitored by speed cameras before the removal deadline. The government plans to collaborate with municipalities in the coming weeks to explore additional strategies for enhancing traffic safety.
Ford’s administration intends to encourage municipalities to utilize speed bumps, raised crosswalks, and roundabouts as part of the new traffic management approach. While a funding mechanism to support these measures is in the pipeline, the exact amount has not been disclosed.
Expressing concerns about the abrupt removal of speed cameras, Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward emphasized the need for adequate funding and the implementation of alternative safety measures beforehand to prevent any safety gaps. She argued that signs alone are insufficient, and certain roads, particularly those near schools, may not be suitable for speed bumps or roundabouts.
Opposition leaders, including NDP Leader Marit Stiles and Liberal parliamentary leader John Fraser, have criticized the government’s decision to eliminate speed cameras. Stiles highlighted the potential risks during the interim period without speed cameras or viable alternatives, while Fraser emphasized the contrary stance taken by Ford against the advice of law enforcement officials and research institutions.
The push to ban speed cameras gained momentum following incidents of vandalism in Toronto, where several automated speed cameras were vandalized. The legislative move to eliminate speed cameras was embedded within a red tape reduction bill, which expedited the process by limiting public debate and skipping hearings.