When the Provincial government banned Automated Speed Enforcement (speed radar cameras) last fall, we all predicted an increase in speeding. New data confirms that’s exactly what has happened.
City staff measured before-and-after speeds at the eight original speed camera locations in Ottawa:
- Before the cameras were removed, 87% of drivers followed the speed limit in school zones.
- One week after they were removed, compliance fell to 62%.
- 12 weeks after they were removed, compliance was at 41%.
More speed = less safety. Last winter in Kanata, a driver nearly hit a baby stroller. Last week on Heron Road, a driver was going so fast that they flipped their car. Here in Stittsville, police recently caught a driver traveling at 78 km/h on Abbott Street, in a 40 km/h school zone. All three locations previously had speed cameras.
What about speed bumps? The City will be installing speed bumps in several school zones in Stittsville where the cameras were removed, including near Sacred Heart, St. Stephen’s and Paul Desmarais. (They can’t be installed on Stittsville Main in front of Holy Spirit because it’s a major roadway.) We are also adding speed indicators along Cope Street in front of the three schools: Shingwàkons, St. Bernadette, and Maplewood.
Why haven’t speed bumps been installed yet? First, they can’t be installed during the winter months. And although the provincial government has said they are providing funding for the speed bumps, there’s a convoluted application and approval process through the Ministry of Transportation that is stalling the process. We’re going to discuss this at committee on Thursday and I’m working with my council colleagues to get the safety measures installed ASAP.
How you can help:
- Follow the posted speed limit at all times.
- Put your phone away and pay attention while you are driving.
- Obey all “No Parking” and “No Stopping” signage.
- If you can, avoid driving near school zones during pick-up and drop-off times.
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