By Sean Delaney
Children are headed back to school and community activities have the streets of Emery buzzing with renewed energy. However, this bustling return brings to light an urgent concern—traffic safety on Weston Rd, stretching from Finch Ave West down to Hwy 401, a known hotspot for speeding.
This stretch of road, while crucial for daily commutes, has unfortunately earned a reputation as a speeder’s paradise. The implications are severe, particularly for children playing in driveways and residents entering and exiting their homes. Furthermore, the presence of daily school buses along roads like Starview Lane adds to the urgency for heightened caution.
Despite the posted speed limit of 50 km/h, designed to ensure the safety of all road users, compliance remains low. This disregard for speed regulations not only endangers lives but also diminishes the quality of life in the community. Recent incidents, including a speeding car hitting an electronic speed sign at Bradstock Rd, illustrate the critical need for enforcement and awareness.
Adding to the complexity, new bike lanes are coming to Weston Rd, and with bike rentals available at several locations along the road, the mix of fast-moving vehicles and cyclists could be a recipe for disaster. This development makes it even more crucial to enforce speed limits and ensure safe sharing of the road.
The City of Toronto has acknowledged such dangers broadly with initiatives like the Vision Zero Road Safety Plan, which aims to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries. Under this plan, efforts to reduce speed limits and enhance signage have been rolled out, focusing on areas with frequent pedestrian activity and previous incidents. Yet, more targeted measures on Weston Rd could significantly enhance safety.
The residents and stewards of the community will decide whether they rally together to advocate for more stringent measures such as increased police presence, installation of speed cameras, and community-led safety audits. These actions can deter reckless driving and encourage safe use.
Reporting malfunctioning streetlights, overgrown trees obscuring signs, and any suspicious activities can make a big difference. Together, through community cooperation and adherence to traffic laws, residents can ensure that Weston Rd is safe for everyone.
Slowing down saves lives, and it is upon everyone to drive with care and consideration for the well-being of all in Emery Village.