The recent speed reduction along the shoreline stretch of Highway 26 between Collingwood and the Town of The Blue Mountains (TBM) is only an “emergency measure,” to which the town plans to pursue a long term solution.
"We have all seen the amount of traffic up here right now is immense and we do need a permanent solution to this," said TBM Mayor Alar Soever.
In mid-June, Soever wrote the premier asking him to reduce the speed limit on Highway 26 from Delphi Lane to Grey Road 21 from 80 km/h to 50 km/h, in order to improve safety.
The new 50 km/h speed limit will remain in effect until Tuesday, Oct. 13, at which point it will return to 80 km/h.
Since the speed was adjusted, TBM town hall has received numerous comments and concerns from the general public.
“There have been 15 positive responses received and 16 negative responses. These are being compiled and the comments are being recorded,” said Soever at a council meeting held yesterday.
“The comments are generally that people feel the 50 should be 60; the reduction is too slow; or that the stretch should be shortened,” he continues. “On the positive side, people are happy that it is easier to turn onto the highway and that it is slower and safer.”
TBM’s Transportation Committee has been tasked with conducting an independent assessment of the Highway 26 speed reduction and any related impacts.
Comments the town has received in regards to the speed change are being complied and addressed in the assessment.
“The main question I have been asked about is the fluctuation in speeds along this stretch - from 80, to 50, to 60, back to 80 - there is a safety concern around the consistency of this,” said TBM Councillor Peter Bordignon.
Soever confirmed the current speed reduction was an “emergency measure” and that the town will be pursuing a long-term, regional solution.
A staff report detailing the independent assessment is expected to be brought back to council before Oct. 13.
The report will be used to inform discussions with the Ministry of Transport on what permanent changes could be implemented.
“We are advocating, along with Grey County, for an integrated regional transportation plan, which includes the lower tiers, and the upper tiers of both Simcoe and Grey County and the province,” Soever said.
“Most of the traffic we see here originated in the GTA, so really, what we need is a plan to move the traffic to the area and through the area that takes into account how it enters this region.”
