Ontario has officially banned automated speed cameras across the province, following Premier Doug Ford’s criticism of the program as a “cash grab.” The move shifts the focus from automated enforcement to physical traffic calming measures, with a $210 million CAD ($149 million USD) investment planned for infrastructure changes and increased police presence.
Shift in Enforcement Strategy
The province’s decision comes after mounting debate over the effectiveness and fairness of speed cameras. While proponents argued for their role in deterring speeding, critics claimed they generated excessive revenue at the expense of drivers.
The $210 million will be allocated as follows: $42 million CAD ($30 million USD) will fund immediate infrastructure improvements, including speed bumps, roundabouts, raised crosswalks, and improved signage in school and community zones. The remaining $168 million CAD ($120 million USD) will be distributed to municipalities early next year.
Public Opinion Favors Physical Measures
Recent polling data from Abacus Data supports the shift. A survey of 2,000 Ontario adults found that 50% prefer traffic calming measures over automated cameras, while only 33% believe cameras are a better solution. Notably, 80% of respondents reported that physical measures effectively compel them to slow down, with speed bumps being the most impactful.
Revenue and Funding Questions
The elimination of camera revenue raises concerns about funding for existing road safety programs. Currently, 35% of camera revenue covers program costs, 24% goes to the province, and 41% funds city initiatives like police road safety programs, school crossing guards, and uniformed officers.
Mayor Olivia Chow has voiced concerns about how these programs will continue operating without the camera revenue stream. The government has yet to provide a detailed plan for replacing this funding source.
The Bigger Picture
The move reflects a broader debate about the role of automated enforcement versus physical infrastructure in improving road safety. While some jurisdictions continue to rely on cameras as a revenue source, Ontario’s decision prioritizes visible, physical interventions that directly alter driver behavior.
The effectiveness of this approach will be closely watched by other provinces and municipalities considering similar shifts in their road safety strategies.
The long-term impact of the ban will depend on how effectively the $210 million is deployed and whether physical measures can deliver the same level of deterrence as automated enforcement
