Alberta government aims to cut photo radar sites by 70%

The Alberta government’s decision to review and reduce photo radar sites in the province has sparked controversy and frustration among municipalities, police chiefs, and opposition critics. The plan to eliminate 70 per cent of photo radar sites, except for those in school, playground, and construction zones, has raised concerns about traffic safety and revenue loss.

Transportation and Economic Corridors Minister Devin Dreeshen emphasized the need to prioritize safety over revenue generation, stating that photo radar should be a tool for protecting people, not a government cash cow. The ban on speed-on-green photo radar at intersections and the requirement for municipalities to make a case for using photo radar in high collision areas every two years demonstrate the government’s commitment to improving road safety.

However, Calgary Police Chief Mark Neufeld criticized the decision, arguing that reducing photo radar sites would lead to an increase in serious and fatal collisions. Neufeld expressed frustration over the lack of consultation with police chiefs and accused the government of undermining public trust with its glib and disrespectful tone.

Municipalities have also voiced their opposition to the plan, citing the use of photo radar revenue for traffic safety measures and policing budgets. Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek raised concerns about defunding the Calgary Police Service and the potential impact on law enforcement in a rapidly growing city.

Alberta Municipalities President Tyler Gandam highlighted the role of photo radar revenue in improving road safety and expressed concerns about the need for increased enforcement by police and peace officers. St. Albert Mayor Cathy Heron anticipated a significant budget loss due to the planned photo radar cut and suggested that Minister Mike Ellis might have a different perspective on the issue.

As the government moves forward with its review of photo radar sites, the debate over the balance between revenue generation and traffic safety is likely to continue. Municipalities, police chiefs, and opposition critics will be closely monitoring the impact of the changes on road safety and enforcement efforts in Alberta.