York Region is currently running Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) in Nobleton—among other locations in the Region—as part of a broader effort to enhance road safety, particularly around school areas.
York Region has identified nine locations, including 14 school areas, for the implementation of ASE in 2024. This initiative involves the deployment of three ASE mobile cameras that will be rotated every three months among the designated locations.
One of the ASE mobile cameras is currently located on northbound Highway 27, south of Parkheights Trail. It will be rotated out at the end of March.
The system uses a camera and speed measurement device to enforce speed limits in specified areas. If a vehicle exceeds the posted speed limit, the system captures an image that is reviewed by a provincial offences officer. The ticket, containing a digitized copy of the image and an enlargement of the license plate, is then mailed to the registered plate holder within 30 days of the offence. It's important to note that ASE-associated tickets do not result in demerit points.
ASE can only be authorized for use in school areas and community safety zones under the Highway Traffic Act. Community safety zones are designated areas where public safety is of special concern, including school areas. Fines for certain Highway Traffic Act offences, such as speeding, are doubled in community safety zones.
Studies from other jurisdictions have shown the effectiveness of ASE in reducing speeding and collisions. For example, Quebec reported an average speed reduction of 13.3 km/h and a reduction in collisions of 15 to 42% at ASE sites. Saskatchewan saw an overall reduction in speed in school areas, with average speed falling by 17% and speed-related casualty collisions decreasing by 63%.
To ensure transparency, clear signage will be posted in each school area indicating the presence of ASE. Additionally, municipal speed camera signs will be installed 90 days in advance of cameras being deployed. Once the cameras are operational, the signs will be updated to notify drivers that municipal speed cameras are in use.
ASE is a valuable tool in promoting road safety and reducing speeding in school areas. By leveraging technology and enforcing speed limits, ASE aims to protect children and other vulnerable road users, making Nobleton and King Township safer for all.
More information on the program is available at york.ca/transportation/traffic/automated-speed-enforcement.
