The region is trying to cut red tape by letting staff make decisions on speed limits for regional roads without having to bring it to a decision in council.
The process previously required that any change to the speed limits, regulated in the Traffic and Parking By-law, was preceded by a formal report to Public Works Committee.
Once approved by Committee the approved report and appropriate by-law would be submitted to Regional Council for approval.
Now, based on ongoing safety monitoring of regional roads, public works will be able to handle the decisions independently and will only be required to present a report to council, informing them about any changes made.
One example is Merrit Road from Highway 406 to Regional Road 50 (Niagara St), where regional staff has determined that the speed limit needs to be brought down to 60 after developments have sprung up along the south side of Merritt Road.
“Regional staff has undertaken the necessary studies to determine if the reduction in the posted speed limit is warranted, incorporating best practices specific to design and operational effectiveness within the geometric design of the roadway. Based on the findings, staff has recommended the posted speed limit reduction from 80 km/h to 60 km/h on Merritt Road from Highway 406 to Regional Road 50 (Niagara Street). The reduction of the posted speed limit is reflective of the land-use change and compliant with the Council approved Speed limit Policy,” an appendix said.
Thorold Mayor Terry Ugulini, who is also on the committee, said he hopes that the tedious process will save time and speed up efficiency.
