The province's new blanket restrictions on photo radar use go into effect on Tuesday.--NEWS FILE PHOTO
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Starting Tuesday, the use of automated traffic enforcement technology, commonly known as photo radar, will be restricted to school, playground and construction zones, and will no longer be used at intersections, roads and highways.
The changes come as a result of an announcement made by the province’s minister of transportation and economic corridors last December that would eliminate the “cash cow” and restore public trust in the use of photo radar.
According to Transportation Minister Devin Dreeshan, the government engaged in consultation and determined the existing automated traffic encouragement sites generate millions of dollars of revenue with “no clear evidence they were improving traffic safety.”
“We have officially killed the photo radar cash cow and the revenue generating fishing holes that make Alberta the biggest user of photo radar in Canada,” said Dreeshan. “The updated guideline will ensure that photo radar is used for safety only.”
To address concerns from several law enforcement agencies and municipalities around traffic safety that may arise from the elimination of ATE technology, the government has created a new revenue source for municipalities to help with the costs of road and intersection upgrades in areas that post a traffic risk.
The province has earmarked $13 million for a new Traffic Safety Fund to help all municipalities upgrade their road systems.
“The new provincial traffic safety fund will support municipalities in physical improvements at key intersections, helping to reduce traffic risks and enhance safe roads,” said Dreeshan.
To request photo radar enforcement at a “high-risk” insurrection or roadway, municipalities must submit a business case detailing high-collision frequency and severity at the site along with a demonstration on how other safety measures are not possible or will be ineffective.
Additionally the province is encouraging municipalities to utilize traffic-calming measures instead of photo radar.
Cameras at intersections will still be operational to enforce red light infractions only. The City of Medicine Hat does not have any cameras installed at intersections.
As of April 1, the number of photo radar locations in Medicine Hat will be reduced from approximately 100 to 60, and will continue to enforce speed in local school, playground and construction zones.
Long overdue