Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow is calling for the return of automated speed enforcement cameras after a new report revealed that speeding has increased in school zones since the devices were eliminated. The data, released by the city on Tuesday, shows that average speeds in school zones have risen by 15% compared to when cameras were operational.
Report findings show significant increase in speeding
The report analyzed traffic data from 50 school zones across Toronto and found that the percentage of vehicles exceeding the speed limit by more than 10 km/h increased from 12% to 22% after the cameras were removed. “Driving like it’s a highway in school zones is unacceptable,” Chow said in a press conference. “These numbers are alarming and we need to act immediately to protect our children.”
The automated speed enforcement program was discontinued in early 2025 due to a provincial review of the program’s legality. However, Chow emphasized that the technology is proven to reduce speeds and improve safety.
Mayor urges provincial government to reinstate program
Chow has formally requested that the Ontario government reinstate the automated enforcement program, which previously operated in 50 school zones and generated over $20 million in fines annually. “This is not about revenue; it’s about saving lives,” she stated. According to the report, the number of collisions involving pedestrians in school zones rose by 18% in the year following the camera removal.
The mayor also highlighted that the city is exploring other measures, such as increased police patrols and traffic calming infrastructure, but called automated cameras the most effective deterrent. “We need every tool in the toolbox,” she added.
Community and safety advocates react
Parent groups and road safety advocates have rallied behind Chow’s call. “We’ve seen firsthand how dangerous our streets have become,” said Maria Santos, a parent of two children at a downtown Toronto school. “The cameras made drivers slow down, and now they’re speeding again.”
Meanwhile, some critics argue that the cameras were a form of revenue generation and that the city should focus on engineering solutions like speed bumps and narrower lanes. However, Chow countered that cameras are a proven, cost-effective method that can be deployed quickly across the city.
