The True Post (Web News)Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek has expressed serious concerns after the ban on photo radar in the Canadian province of Alberta. She said the move could increase traffic accidents and have a negative impact on police budgets.
The Alberta provincial government has announced that the use of photo radar will be limited to schools, playgrounds and construction areas starting April 1, 2025. In addition, it is being banned on provincial highways and “speed on green” cameras.
Calgary Police Chief Mark Neufeld has warned that the restrictions could lead to an increase in serious and fatal crashes. He said that without photo radar, police would have to monitor traffic manually, which would affect other important duties.
The Calgary Police Service (CPS) reported that photo radar revenue fell by 58 per cent in 2023, cutting the police budget by nearly $13 million. If these restrictions remain in place, the deficit could exceed $30 million by 2026.
Mayor Gondek has said he is concerned about what steps the provincial government will take to keep the police service running, especially as revenue from fines is declining.
Transportation Minister Devon Dreschen says photo radar is often used as a “cash cow,” aimed at generating revenue rather than traffic safety. He added that the number of accidents has decreased in some municipalities after removing photo radar, although he did not provide any data to support that claim.
This controversy raises important questions about the future of traffic safety and policing in Alberta, especially when balancing budgets and public safety.
