TORONTO — The City of Toronto has announced the complete removal of all automated speed cameras (ASCs) in the city, following a directive from Ontario Premier Doug Ford. The Premier’s sustained campaign, which characterized the safety devices as a “money grab scheme,” has led to the dismantling of the program within a year of its widespread implementation.
Approximately 150 cameras have been decommissioned by the City, including the critical camera located on Parkside Drive, an area known for multiple speeding-related fatalities.
Studies had previously indicated the effectiveness of the speed cameras in reducing driver speeds, particularly in protecting children within school zones. However, the Premier intervened after widespread vandalism targeted the cameras in 2024.
Despite strong opposition from local officials, including Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, who emphasized that “speeding kills,” the provincial government enforced the ban via the passage of Bill 56. Police chiefs and road safety experts have expressed concern that this move represents a significant reversal of years of progress in road safety within the municipality.
