In an alarming turn of events, a controversial speed camera in Toronto has met a swift fate just a day after its reinstallation. Located on Parkside Drive, the device was found vandalized and lying on the ground early Saturday morning, marking the second time this month that it has been targeted.

“It’s disappointing because this speed camera is here to slow people down,” remarked Faraz Gholizadeh, co-chair of the group Safe Parkside. “It’s there for safety. For someone to cut it down shows a lack of concern for our streets and community.”

The speed camera was initially put in place in response to a tragic incident in 2021 where an elderly couple lost their lives due to a speeding driver. In its operational period, the camera reportedly issued over 60,000 tickets, generating an estimated $6.8 million in fines—a staggering figure underscoring the extent of speeding issues in that area.

Responding to the vandalism, Shane Gerard, a city spokesperson, condemned the act, emphasizing that such behaviors undermine road safety and allow dangerous speeding to persist, particularly threatening vulnerable users such as pedestrians and cyclists. The camera, which is owned by a vendor, is currently under assessment for damage and plans for repair.

However, frustration over the camera's existence goes beyond just vandalism. Gholizadeh stated that while issuing tickets may bring in revenue, it does little to enhance safety. “Any measure that can be so easily thwarted is not a true safety measure,” he asserted. Advocating for more substantial changes, he called for Parkside Drive to be transformed into a 'complete street'—a design principle aimed at making roads safer for everyone, including pedestrians and cyclists, while incorporating elements like café spaces and greenery.

Earlier this month, the city council approved a 'road safety project' for the area, which aims to implement bike lanes and further design modifications to reduce vehicle speeds. Mayor Olivia Chow condemned the recent vandalism, stating: “Acts of vandalism that jeopardize the safety of Torontonians are entirely inappropriate, particularly on a dangerous section of road like Parkside Dr.”

As this saga unfolds, the pressing question remains: how will Toronto balance the need for effective traffic enforcement with the growing demands for comprehensive road safety measures? The recent camera incident could be a catalyst for change, driving further discussions about the safety infrastructure that the city desperately needs.