Toronto – Arab Canada News

The city of Toronto has removed the controversial automated speed camera for the fourth time, which had generated massive financial returns for the city's treasury, after increasing criticism from local residents and claims that its location does not enhance public safety as much as it serves as a source of income.

The camera, which was installed on Runnymede Road near St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School in the Little Italy neighborhood, was previously described as one of the "highest revenue-generating cameras" in the city's speed monitoring program, having issued thousands of fines since its installation.

According to municipal data, the camera collected over 3 million dollars in fines, most of which were for exceeding the speed limit set at 30 kilometers per hour in the school zone.

Despite the camera's effectiveness in regulating speed, many local residents expressed their feeling that its location serves a "punitive" purpose more than it is a tool to protect children and pedestrians, especially since the location has undergone significant changes in traffic infrastructure in recent years, reducing the need for strict oversight there.

A city spokesperson stated that the removal is part of the periodic review of the cameras' performance and evaluation of their effectiveness in improving safety. He explained that cameras are relocated based on factors including accident rates, community feedback, and recorded traffic data.

The municipality added that it will continue to use automated speed cameras as part of its road safety strategy, as the program has helped reduce accidents and injuries, especially in areas close to schools.

It is noted that Toronto operates over 50 fixed speed cameras, which are relocated every few months to new sites, as part of a program aimed at reducing speed in residential areas and protecting vulnerable road users.