Ottawa drivers, take note: the city's controversial photo radar cameras will be temporarily powered down starting November 14th, marking a brief reprieve from automated speed enforcement.
Why the Sudden Shutdown?
The decision to temporarily disable the cameras isn't about changing traffic enforcement policies, but rather a necessary technical transition. The city is moving its photo radar program to a new back-office system that will handle the processing and administration of violations more efficiently.
This means that for a period of time, those familiar camera flashes won't be capturing speeding vehicles, even if drivers exceed posted limits in school zones and community safety zones where the devices are typically stationed.
When Will Enforcement Resume?
City officials have confirmed this is a temporary measure, with the cameras expected to be fully operational again by December 5, 2024. The three-week window allows for a smooth transition to the new system without disrupting the integrity of the enforcement program.
During this transition period, it's important to note that traditional traffic enforcement by Ottawa Police will continue. Officers will still be monitoring speeding and other traffic violations throughout the city.
A Program with Proven Results
Since their introduction, Ottawa's photo radar cameras have been both praised and criticized. The automated enforcement program has:
- Significantly reduced speeding in monitored areas
- Generated substantial revenue through fines
- Faced criticism from some drivers who question their effectiveness
The temporary shutdown provides an interesting opportunity to study traffic patterns and driver behavior when automated enforcement is temporarily removed from the equation.
While the cameras will be inactive for several weeks, city officials emphasize that the break doesn't signal any long-term changes to the photo radar program. Once the system upgrade is complete, Ottawa's automated speed enforcement will resume its watch over the city's streets.
