Toronto tests surveillance of motorists passing streetcars

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) is piloting an automatic camera enforcement technology to document the license plates of motorists who pass open doors on streetcars.

The pilot contract was awarded to British Columbia-based Gatekeeper Systems Inc. The project calls for the development and installation of cameras on four streetcars and nine months of testing starting later next year, TTC officials said in a press release. The project cost is estimated at C$460,000.

Between 2014 and 2024, vehicles have collided with 141 passengers boarding or exiting streetcars. The current fine for passing open streetcar doors is up to C$183.25, plus three demerit points on the motorist's drivers license.  No tickets will be issued during the pilot phase of the new system, however.

“The TTC Board has made the safety of streetcar customers a priority for our operations teams and addressing those who illegally pass open doors is an important part of improving safety,” said Chair Jamaal Myers. “Through this pilot, we can fine-tune the program and make the TTC an even safer way to get around the city.”

TTC has advocated for the use of surveillance cameras since 2015, commission officials said.