The City of Guelph recently announced that automated speed cameras in designated school zones have been effective in reducing vehicle speeds. Data collected from the first eight locations since the program was launched last August showed that vehicles were being driven an average of 8 km/h slower. For example, on Ironwood Road near Scottsdale Drive, the average speed decreased from 43 km/h to 33 km/h after the camera was installed. The presence of speed cameras also made drivers three times more likely to drive under the posted speed limit.
In addition to the success of the existing speed cameras, the City of Guelph announced the installation of automated speed cameras in four new school zones: McMann Street (Ecole Arbour Vista Public School), Lee Street (William C. Winegard Public School), Dublin Street North (Central Public School), and June Avenue (June Avenue Public School). These cameras will be rotated to different school zones every three months, with 16 more locations planned between August 1, 2024, and May 1, 2025. The city hopes that the presence of speed cameras will continue to encourage drivers to slow down and prioritize the safety of students in school zones.
The data collected by the City of Guelph also revealed some interesting statistics regarding driver behavior in areas with speed cameras. For example, motorists who travel on Stephanie Drive were six times more likely to drive under the posted speed limit with the presence of a speed camera compared to before. This indicates that the presence of automated speed cameras has a significant impact on reducing speeding and improving road safety in school zones. The city is pleased with the results so far and plans to expand the program to additional locations in the coming years.
The success of the automated speed camera program in Guelph is a positive development for road safety in the community. By effectively reducing vehicle speeds in school zones, the city is taking proactive measures to protect students and pedestrians from the dangers of speeding drivers. The data collected from the first eight locations demonstrates the effectiveness of speed cameras in encouraging drivers to comply with posted speed limits and prioritize safety on the roads.
Overall, the City of Guelph’s automated speed camera program has been successful in reducing speeding and improving road safety in school zones. The data collected from the first eight locations showed an average decrease in vehicle speeds of 8 km/h, with some areas experiencing even greater reductions in speed. By rotating the cameras to different school zones and planning to expand the program to additional locations, the city is making a significant effort to create safer roadways for all residents. The positive impact of the speed cameras on driver behavior and speed compliance is a testament to the effectiveness of automated enforcement measures in improving road safety.
