Image from the 2019 Street Machine weekend. (Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

LPS ramping up enforcement during Street Machine weekend

Jul 8, 2021 | 3:27 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Classic car enthusiasts are in for the usual summer treat in Lethbridge this weekend, but LPS warns that the owners of said cars need to follow the rules.

Acting Sgt. of the Traffic Response Unit Brent Paxman states there will be extra police resources on hand during the event.

“The intention is not to put a damper on those drivers who are respectful of others on the roadway and those who live in the area. [It’s] in response to a growing number of public complaints about loud mufflers, racing, and stunting.”

During the Street Machine Weekend, he notes that there is typically a large increase in activities such as stunting, racing, and exceptionally loud noises.

Paxman says, in recent months, the usual traffic violation tickets have not been enough of a deterrent, so they will instead be utilizing their authorities under Section 66 of the Traffic Safety Act.

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That has to do with the inspection of vehicles. Officers will be able to advise drivers that they will be conducting a vehicle inspection on the spot.

“Anything that we find safety-wise, most of the vehicle equipment regulation – that being excessive noise from a muffler, no mud flaps or mudguards to the extreme where they’re cutting frames and taking out airbags and stuff like that – we have the authority to seize the actual registration, the paper, the license plate, and because, at that point, your registration has been cancelled immediately, the vehicle has to be towed off the road.”

“This year, the cruise is not happening so there are no road closures, so some of these vehicles that are only allowed to be on a parade route are not going to be able to be driving on our public roads.”

Paxman told participating vehicle owners that they are not out to ruin anybody’s fun and that, if you follow the rules, you will have nothing to worry about.

As far as spectators, there are no officially established viewing areas but he nonetheless expects to see people lined up along Mayor Magrath Drive South and 3 Ave South. Paxman advises staying clear of the roadways to prevent any debris from hitting you.

The weekend kicks off Friday with “some good ol fashioned cruisin around town,” reads the official Street Wheelers’ website.

The Poker Run takes place on Saturday and Sunday features the Show & Shine at Galt Gardens.

More details on planned Street Machine festivities are available here.