Dear Editor,
Re: "Letters: New mom asks Richmond council to slow down traffic," Aug. 21, 2025
I read with interest Ms. Kristensen’s letter regarding speeding in Richmond’s neighbourhoods.
As a new father, I share her concern for the safety of children and families near schools/daycares, neighbourhoods and community centres.
However, I do not believe that simply lowering speed limits and/or relying on automated enforcement, such as speed cameras, will meaningfully address the problem.
Too often, tickets become little more than another form of taxation. Drivers pay the fine but continue the same behaviour.
Since automated systems typically do not add points to a driver’s licence, they lack the deterrent effect of traditional enforcement.
Instead, the city should focus on engineering safer streets.
Traffic calming measures, such as narrower driving lanes, curb extensions or thoughtfully placed speed humps make drivers naturally more cautious and less inclined to speed.
While redesigning infrastructure may require more effort than installing cameras, it is a more effective and lasting solution for creating truly safe neighbourhoods.
Gurinder Purewal
Richmond
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