Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s administration has allocated $210 million to assist municipalities in implementing traffic-calming initiatives following the impending prohibition on speed cameras. The premier had strongly criticized speed cameras, denouncing them as a revenue-generating scheme for municipalities. Despite Ford’s skepticism about their effectiveness in reducing speeding, evidence from municipalities and researchers from the Hospital for Sick Children suggests otherwise. Over 20 mayors had advocated for modifications to the program instead of its complete elimination, expressing concerns that road safety measures would now be funded by all taxpayers rather than by speeding drivers.
Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria announced the establishment of a new Road Safety Initiatives Fund, which will provide an initial $42 million for initiatives such as speed bumps, raised crosswalks, roundabouts, new signage, and enhanced police enforcement in areas previously monitored by speed cameras. Sarkaria emphasized that the fund aims to bolster Ontario’s road safety record without imposing additional costs on drivers. Municipalities meeting the criteria will have the opportunity to apply for the remaining $168 million in early 2023.
The government’s decision to ban speed cameras gained momentum following the removal of 17 automated speed cameras in Toronto within a two-day period. The prohibition on speed cameras was incorporated into a red tape reduction bill, which was expedited by the government, limiting debate and bypassing public consultations.