Drivers unfairly targeted by photo radar traffic violation traps will be relieved to know that the Alberta government announced a ban on radar “fishing holes” used primarily as a source of generating revenue rather than making the roads safer.
In an announcement on Thursday, Alberta revealed a plan to implement significant changes to the rules governing the use of photo radars.
In response to widespread public frustration over the use of photo radar for revenue generation rather than traffic safety, the provincial government proposed a ban on photo radar operations on ring roads in Calgary and Edmonton.
This decision, based on data collected from across the province, is aimed at addressing concerns raised by residents who have long criticized the use of photo radar as little more than a money-making tool for local governments.
“Alberta has the highest usage of photo radar in Canada, and these changes will finally eliminate the cash cow that affects so many Albertans. Photo radar must only be used to improve traffic safety, and with these changes, municipalities will no longer be able to issue thousands of speeding tickets simply to generate revenue,” said Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors Devin Dreeshen in a statement.
This comes on top of the Dec. 1, 2019 pause on new photo radar equipment and locations.
Following this, a comprehensive review of the system was conducted, leading to the upcoming ban on ring roads, a move intended to curb what many referred to as “fishing hole” locations meant to trap unsuspecting drivers.
The new rules also include an extension of the cap on any new photo radar equipment, programs, or locations until December 1, 2024. This extended period will facilitate a year-long consultation with municipalities across the province.
Several councillors are on board with the provincial plan, including City of Calgary Ward 10 councillor Andre Chabot.
“I am very pleased to see this change to allow our police force to redeploy photo radar from Stoney Trail into high-risk areas in our communities such as school zones, construction zones and playground zones due to changing traffic patterns. This will result in increased traffic safety for all Calgary drivers and pedestrians,” said Chabot.
During this consultation period, Edmonton and Calgary will have the option to reassign the photo radar units previously used on the ring roads.
