Orillia plans to utilize photo radar cameras to curb speeding

The City of Orillia is the latest municipality to introduce photo radar cameras to curb speeding in community safety zones.

Council approved moving forward with its automated speed enforcement program, which will include speed cameras and other measures to deter poor driving behaviours, in partnership with the Town of Newmarket.

“By targeting community safety zones and school zones, we’re taking proactive steps to protect our community and create safer streets for everyone,” stated Mayor Don McIsaac.

Here’s How It Works

The photo radar camera captures images of vehicles exceeding the speed limit and a ticket is then issued to the registered vehicle owner.

The infraction does not impact the vehicle’s insurance or affect driver demerit points.

The City says the primary goal of the program is to reduce speed and improve road safety.

“Ontario municipalities that have adopted automated speed enforcement programs have reported significant improvements in speed compliance up to 60 per cent,” noted Steven Murphy, the city’s transportation engineer.

What’s Next

Once the agreement for the program is completed, the City will develop the necessary bylaws and policies to support its implementation.

“The total capital budget allocated for the program is $285,000, covering the initial costs for leasing cameras, installation, public awareness campaigns, and staffing support,” the City stated.

Revenue generated from fines issued by the program will be reinvested into road safety initiatives and infrastructure improvements, according to the City.

The cameras are expected to be installed by next fall.