In 2025, the streets of Toronto experienced a significant improvement in safety for pedestrians and drivers alike. However, a recent decision by the Premier of Ontario to remove speed cameras has sparked concerns among officials about the potential increase in road dangers.
Last year, Toronto saw a doubling in the number of speed cameras from 75 to 150, leading to a noticeable shift in driving behaviors. By the end of 2025, the city recorded the lowest number of fatalities and serious injuries since the initiation of the Vision Zero program.
Coun. Paula Fletcher emphasized the importance of speed safety cameras in enhancing overall safety on the roads, highlighting their role in protecting individuals, especially children. She criticized the decision to eliminate the cameras, attributing it to one of the detrimental actions taken by the government.
However, not everyone is convinced of the cameras’ effectiveness in saving lives. Coun. Stephen Holyday raised doubts about the long-term impact of the cameras on road safety, advocating for more concrete evidence to support their efficacy.
Premier Doug Ford strongly opposed the speed cameras and ultimately banned them in November, citing concerns about their effectiveness and accusing them of being a revenue-generating tactic. Despite this setback, Toronto officials stress the need to continue implementing various safety measures to ensure the city’s streets remain safe.
According to Sheyda Saneinejad, manager of Toronto’s Vision Zero strategy, the city is expanding its traffic calming initiatives, school crossing guard programs, and red light camera programs to compensate for the absence of speed cameras.
While the province has discontinued the use of automated speed cameras, individuals who received tickets before the ban are still required to pay their fines.