Smarter Traffic

Anyone who drives in Cochrane knows how frustrating our traffic has become. Long waits at the lights on Railway Street or slow commutes from Gleneagles are now common. Congestion wastes time, burns fuel, and increases stress for everyone. The challenge is that we do not yet have enough reliable data to truly fix the problem.

One practical solution is to install smart cameras at key intersections. These cameras would focus only on roads and intersections, never on private property such as homes or driveways. They would not be connected to the internet, and all data would be anonymized and deleted after a short time unless it is required for an accident investigation. The system is designed for traffic management and public safety, not for surveillance.

How the system would help Cochrane

Smarter traffic flow
The cameras can count and classify vehicles, which allows traffic lights to respond in real time instead of following a fixed schedule. Drivers would spend less time waiting at empty intersections, and backups during peak hours would be reduced. Over time, the system could also identify travel patterns, which would help the town prepare intersections before they become overcrowded.

Support for public safety
If a stolen vehicle or a car linked to a criminal investigation passes through town, the RCMP would receive an automatic alert with the vehicle’s photo, time, and location. Emergency vehicles such as ambulances and fire trucks could also be given priority green lights. This could save valuable minutes during emergencies when every second is critical.

Reliable records for accidents
When accidents occur, witness accounts are often incomplete or contradictory. Camera footage provides an impartial record that can support fair outcomes. A few years ago, when a construction worker in Cochrane was struck by an impaired driver, nearby store footage became crucial evidence in court. Having this kind of record protects victims, drivers, and the community as a whole.

Keeping the system transparent

To ensure that the system is affordable and accountable, the software should be developed as open source. This means the town avoids expensive licensing fees, residents can have confidence in how the system works, and the technology can be adapted as Cochrane grows. A public dashboard could share anonymized traffic data so residents can see the improvements for themselves. In addition, a local citizen oversight group could guide and review the program to ensure it always serves the community’s best interests.

Building solutions that fit Cochrane

This proposal is not about adding technology for its own sake. It is about using tools that can reduce congestion, improve safety, and support law enforcement in a way that is affordable and transparent. Most importantly, it is about keeping the system accountable to the people who live here.

Cochrane is growing quickly, and practical solutions are needed to keep our streets safe and efficient. By investing in smart traffic technology, we can save time, protect lives, and prepare for the future with confidence.