Uxbridge looking for fulsome report on traffic calming

DAN CEARNS The Standard

UXBRIDGE: The Township of Uxbridge is looking to take a wholesome approach to traffic calming after seeing a recent safety audit for a local stretch of roadway.

At a meeting on Monday, December 2nd, councillors saw a report from Kyle Brennan, Operations and Capital Project Manager, on recent findings from an audit conducted on a 400-metre segment of Concession Road 3. This stretch of roadway was south of Regional Road 21.

“A review of speeds along the corridor shows that most vehicles drive over the speed limit with an average speed of 50-60 km/h. It is recommended that radar-speed boards as well as Dragon’s Teeth Line Paintings be placed in each direction around the residential area to reduce drivers’ speeds,” read a letter from Safe Roads Engineering, included in the report. “There have been two collisions near the study area within the last five years, with property damage as a result of animals crossing the road. There are deficiencies in the road design of Concession 3; however, these issues are common on rural roadways in municipalities across Ontario and Canada and upgrading the Concession 3 roadway may not be feasible within the confines of the existing topography and Township budget.”

While the report recommended the radar-speed board postings and the line paintings, some members of council thought there should be a wider look at safety needs on Township roads.

“Just wondering if instead of just looking at this one piece, if we should look at everything. [Look at] where we should be putting our assets,” Mayor Dave Barton said.

He suggested a “data-driven” and “inclusive” approach to the issue of traffic calming.

Ward 1 Councillor Pam Beach agreed, stating she believes there are other roads which are likely seeing similar issues.

The report was later received, and the recommendations were referred to staff for “a more fulsome report” on traffic calming. Following the decision, council members were asked by The Standard if traffic data like this is discussed with the Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) following or during studies like this.

“Often when we do have these reports, we do share with DRPS as relevant if we’re finding there are significant outliers. It just allows them to allocate their policing resources appropriately as well. Mayor Dave does meet on a monthly basis with DRPS, and I believe Councillor Garrod sits on their board, too. So I think we’re well equipped to share information and data as it becomes available,” Ward 4 Councillor Willie Popp responded.