Last month, the Province announced that it will replace all existing intersection safety cameras in British Columbia through a phased implementation process, to be completed in spring 2027. There are currently 140 intersection safety cameras (ICS) that enforce red light violations, including 35 that also conduct speed enforcement.
The primary reason for replacing these cameras is that they are nearing the end of their working life, and their technology has become outdated. New cameras will be higher in resolution, while also providing the same level of enforcement and data as the previous technology. Existing cameras will remain operational during the period when new cameras are being installed.
Participating local governments have been asked to sign new agreements with the Province that set out high-level expectations on how cameras will be operated and maintained, and how the Province, vendor, and impacted local governments will work together. This includes coordination in relation to any road work that needs to be completed to facilitate the installation of new cameras.
The Province is investing $67 million for the duration of its new five-year ISC vendor contract, including the work to install new cameras. Local governments will continue to receive all net traffic fine revenue, including net revenue earned from ISC red light and speed violation tickets. Local governments will not be asked to contribute to costs associated with the new cameras or any other related infrastructure upgrades.
Prior to this announcement, the Province has been reviewing the ISC program. UBCM’s input towards this review, and potential expansion of the ISC program, emphasized the importance of preserving the current Traffic Fine Revenue Sharing arrangement; the need for broader consultation with local governments regarding any potential changes; and a preference for the Province to fund any expansion through the creation of internal efficiencies and costs savings as opposed to using funds earmarked for local governments.
Traffic fine revenue is distributed through the Traffic Fine Revenue Sharing (TFRS) agreement, which provides a guaranteed baseline of $56.25 million per year to local governments. This is the total amount that has been disbursed to local governments over the past several years, due to the total net revenue failing to exceed the fixed minimum.
ICBC is currently in the process of replacing existing cameras. Beyond this operational work, any future direction and actions will be determined by the incoming provincial government.