Toronto’s Speed Limit Signs Are So Big They Need New Poles

Speed limits and politics don’t often make headlines, but last month they did. Ontario Premier Doug Ford banned the use of speed cameras, dismissing them as a “cash grab” and redirecting funds toward other traffic-calming ideas. One of these is a new set of oversized speed limit signs. There’s just one big hitch: they don’t fit Toronto’s existing poles.

The 90 new temporary signs destined for 20 school zones across Toronto are three feet wide and can be up to eight feet tall, meaning the signs alone are roughly as high as the poles currently used. In Ottawa, Canada, the massive signs have to be supported by 12-foot wooden poles.

Read: Ontario Banned All Speed Cameras After Ford Called Them A Cash Grab

Last week, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow confirmed the signs are too big and will require the city to get new poles. Fortunately, the province says it will fund them.

While recently speaking with members of the media, Ford appeared flabbergasted that authorities in Toronto couldn’t figure out how to fit the new signs.

“When they told me this, I broke out laughing,” he said. “So, let’s get this straight: all the other municipalities, there’s no problem. But sure enough, it’s Toronto again and Ottawa. They can’t put up a big sign? Like, do I have to go there and show them how to put up a big sign? I think it’s just another excuse. You don’t like the signs? Put up the speed bumps… It’s a joke. I can’t believe it.”

Ford believes the large speed limit signs, in addition to new speed bumps and flashing lights, will be a better deterrent than speed cameras and fines.

However, according to studies reported by the Toronto Star, large signs are expected to do very little to deter speeding and aggressive driving.

In addition, just 21 of the 150 locations where speeding cameras are now banned have been deemed eligible to receive speed humps or cushions, and none can be fitted with complete speed bumps or roundabouts.

Opening screenshot via CBC News Canada