Calgary police considering permanent photo radar in school zones

Calgary police are exploring the idea of installing permanent photo radar in playground and school zones.

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Photo radar is a divisive issue in this city, but Insp. Ken Thrower with the Calgary police traffic section believes the issue is worth exploring if it helps keep children safe.

When it comes down to it, one person speeding in a playground zonehitting one child,as far as Im concerned, thats one too many, Thrower told CBC Radio's theCalgary Eyeopener.

Were never going to have zero per cent but whatever we can do to lessen that[to] get that education out there and have people slow down.

Other cities such as Chicago and New York have already experimented with installing permanent speed enforcement devices in school zones and are claiming success.

Thrower is going to look at data from other cities to see how this project could best be used in Calgary.

We may end up using something else another innovative piece, road design, signage or maybe what were doing now with the mobile photo radar is the way to go.

The project would require changes to Albertas Traffic Safety Act as the province doesnt currently allow permanent photo radar cameras to be installed in residential areas.