Toronto has removed its speed cameras, marking the end of Premier Doug Ford’s campaign against them. The cameras were taken down by the vendor who initially installed them for the city. The decision to remove the cameras came after a tragic incident where a couple was fatally hit by a speeding driver on Parkside Drive.
Following the accident, the city installed a speed camera that issued thousands of tickets. The driver responsible for the crash was sentenced to prison. Despite the effectiveness of speed cameras in reducing speeding, vandalism against the cameras increased, leading to their removal.
Mayor Olivia Chow initially opposed the ban on speed cameras, citing safety concerns. However, under pressure from Ford, the city eventually removed all speed cameras. Experts and police criticized the ban, emphasizing the positive impact of speed cameras on road safety.
Despite efforts to maintain the speed camera program, including concessions and support from various organizations, the ban on speed cameras was implemented. The company supplying the cameras expressed disappointment at the decision and highlighted the safety benefits of speed cameras.