Toronto/CMEDIA: A two-week enforcement blitz reportedly targeting drivers who stop in No Stopping Zones during rush hour on key arterial routes was launched yesterday by the Toronto city and the Toronto Police Service (TPS).
“Stopping in a No Stopping Zone slows everyone down. A single vehicle can be a big contributor to traffic congestion, especially on our busy downtown corridors. It’s important that everyone obeys the No Stopping signs in these clearly marked areas because we all have a role to play in keeping Toronto moving,” said Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow
This initiative running from Jun 16 until Friday, June 27, will increase enforcement during weekday afternoon peak periods from 3 to 7 p.m.
Strategically deployed along high-traffic corridors in the downtown core, TPS Parking Enforcement officers will be enforcing no stopping bylaws where vehicles obstruct the safe and efficient movement of traffic.
Two No Stopping enforcement blitzes this year: one by the end of June and a second by the end of September were conducted in April by Toronto City Council directed City staff and TPS.
Present on-street areas No Stopping Zones are where motorists are prohibited from stopping for any reason except to comply with a police officer or traffic control signals or to avoid conflict with other traffic.
Areas near bus and streetcar stops, pedestrian crosswalks and fire hydrants as well as other areas that are listed on the City’s website are included in the No Stopping Zones.
“For the next two weeks, our Parking Enforcement officers will be increasing their enforcement in the downtown core during rush hours to help keep our streets moving. Follow the rules to avoid getting ticketed or towed and keep our roads safe for everyone who uses them,” said Chief Superintendent Mandeep Mann, Toronto Police Service Field Services.
A fine of $190 ticket and towing of their vehicles would be done If a driver chooses to stop or stand in any of these zones.
Aimed at reminding drivers about the importance of obeying traffic signage to help keep traffic flowing, especially during the busiest times of day, the enforcement blitz supports the City’s comprehensive Congestion Management Plan.
More about the Congestion Management Plan is available on the City’s website.
As an intensification of TPS’ existing rush hour enforcement operations, the results of this initiative will be reviewed at the end of the two-week period to assess its impact and determine next steps.
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