Fredericton studies the use of red light cameras

Fredericton is looking at the use of red light cameras in an effort to reduce incidents of speeding and running red lights in the city, according to a councillor.

While it isn't possible to implement the technology at the moment because of provincial regulations, it's still on the city's radar.

"We recognize the importance of enforcement and I think a key part of this going forward, because police resources are limitedand they're expensive, that we're going to be turning to the use of technology," said Coun.Stephen Chase.

Red light cameras are used in many Canadian cities already.

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The cameras are set up in intersections and record the licence plate of any vehicle that runs a red light. The owner of the vehicle is then sent a ticket for the offence.

The city tested the technology recentlyusing camerasprovided by Edmonton.

No tickets were sent out but the tapes were sent to the University of British Columbia for review.

"We don't have the findings from that, but I think I'm on very safe ground when I tell you that there are a lot of people running red lights and speeding through those intersections," said Chase.

Although the Motor Vehicle Act doesn't allow for the use of red light cameras, Chase said heis hopeful the provincial governmentwill change that.

"That's something we've been working on with the province of New Brunswick and we're very optimistic they will follow almost every other province in the country," said Chase.

Fredericton reacts

Residents of the city have mixed feelings about the introduction of red light cameras.

Irene Murphy said she thinks the technology is long overdue.

"There are going to be some serious accidents soon if the city and police don't do something about this ongoing problem," Murphy said.

"They have talked about it long enough, it's time to put words to action."

Jeff Blackmore, on the other hand, is not on-board with the proposal.

"I cannot tell you how disgusted I am with the city's intent to operate red light cameras," Blackmore said.

"I see this type of thing as leading the city down a slippery slope of militant behaviour toward our citizens."