Four speed cameras will be coming to Peterborough in 2025 as part of a two-year automated speed enforcement pilot targeting Community Safety Zones and school areas.
City council has endorsed the move, which is aimed at curbing speeding in designated zones with posted speed limits of 40 km/h. The cameras will automatically capture images of vehicles exceeding the limit, with tickets issued to the registered owners following review by Provincial Offences Officers.
The pilot program will cost an estimated $489,000, covered through the 2025 Capital Budget. The cameras are expected to rotate between various locations, allowing city staff to assess compliance rates, logistics, and potential for future expansion.
Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation has the final say on whether the program can proceed, based on demonstrated need.
The move follows a 2023 council decision to reduce speed limits near schools and create 30 Community Safety Zones. A follow-up study showed an average speed reduction of 6.5 km/h, but speeds still remain roughly 11.5 km/h above the posted limit.
Research from other Ontario municipalities, including Ottawa, Guelph and Toronto, shows that automated speed enforcement helps improve driver behaviour and pedestrian safety.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
