The same Nolan Crouse who was disappointed over the lower-than-expected revenue generated last year from the speed-on-green and red light cameras is now waving the safety flag and once again wants to lower the 10 km/h tolerance.
Photo radar of all types in St. Albert is very effective at earning extra revenue for an already heavily taxed city. My recent conversation with a photo radar operator revealed that the photo intersections alone added approximately $6,000,000 to the city’s coffers last year. If there was an epidemic of fatal accidents caused by speeding, the increase in photo units would be justified but this is simply not the case.
It would appear that the recently installed intersection cameras here and in Edmonton have decreased the pleasure and efficiency of driving and replaced it with fear. On several occasions, I have witnessed people driving within the limit, jamming on their brakes when approaching an intersection even though they had enough time to safely proceed through. Installing countdown timers at all major intersections might relieve the tension one feels approaching them and possibly avoid rear end collisions that might result.
Another side effect of increasing photo radar/intersection cameras is the greater number of motorists driving under the posted limit. While this might please proponents of photo radar, it can prove to be frustrating for those going to work, fulfilling appointments, etc. Drive on the Trail or 170 Street for example, and you will know what I mean. Travelling 50 km/h or lower in a 60 km/h zone seems to be a result of the fear I mentioned earlier. This problem has especially increased with the installation of intersection cameras.
I am not advocating speeding Crouse, but your need for extra cash by lowering tolerances will only exacerbate an already maddening situation.
Dave Trent, St. Albert
