Toronto Police Service (TPS) has announced a new traffic enforcement campaign starting this week to tackle congestion and enhance safety on the city’s busiest downtown streets. The initiative will focus on key corridors within the Bloor Street, Front, Bathurst, and Jarvis streets area during rush hours from 3 to 7 p.m. for the next three months.
The goal of the campaign is to crack down on drivers who flout traffic regulations, with officers specifically targeting violations such as blocking intersections, illegal parking, prohibited turns, speeding, distracted driving, and running red lights.
Blocking the box, a common issue in Toronto’s downtown core where vehicles enter intersections without sufficient space, causing traffic jams and hindering cross-street movement, will be closely monitored. Offenders could face a hefty $450 fine and two demerit points under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act.
The campaign aims to address rush-hour gridlock, particularly along Yonge Street, University Avenue, and King Street, by reinforcing the importance of obeying traffic laws. TPS highlighted that this intensified enforcement effort serves as a reminder to drivers about the impact of their actions on congestion and road safety.
Following the three-month period, the effectiveness of the campaign will be evaluated to determine whether the enforcement should be prolonged or expanded.