Kawartha Lakes approves new all-way stop, speed reduction on Valentia Road

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: At a recent meeting, City of Kawartha Lakes Council approved new traffic measures for Valentia Road, including the installation of an all-way stop, at Valentia Road and Ramsey Road, along with new speed posting for the surrounding area.

The changes come in response to a staff review, prompted by the upcoming repair and temporary closure of the Elm Tree Road bridge. With traffic expected to reroute through Valentia Road, City staff prepared a traffic management plan, to ensure the safety of drivers using the detour route.

In a report, authored by Gordon Archibald, Senior Engineering Technician, staff recommended the installation of an all-way stop with flashing beacons, at Valentia Road and Ramsey Road. The report also proposed reducing the speed limit on Valentia Road, from Little Britain Road to Ramsey Road.

Originally, the staff report recommended setting the speed limit at 60 km/h. However, after further review, it was determined, a speed limit of 70 km/h would be more appropriate, for this stretch of rural road.

“Traffic counts, performed at the intersection, showed a volume split of 50/50," said Mr. Archibald, in his report. "For intersecting arterial roads, with equal volumes, it is best practice to control [flow] with an all-way stop."

Council ultimately passed a motion to install the all-way stop and set the speed limit at 70 km/h, between Little Britain Road and Ramsey Road.

The upgrades are intended to remain in place, permanently, even after the Elm Tree Road bridge repairs are completed. Staff noted, traffic volumes on Valentia Road as well as safety concerns, related to turning movements at the intersection, justify keeping the all-way stop and speed posting in the long term.

The estimated cost for the improvements is approximately $10,000, covering new signage and flashing beacons, which will be funded through the Public Works operational budget and the traffic signal capital budget.

Mayor Doug Elmslie expressed support for the changes, stating, "As our rural areas continue to see more traffic, it’s important we stay ahead of safety concerns. These updates will help ensure drivers using the detour, and local residents, are better protected."

The necessary by-laws, to formalize these traffic changes, will be brought forward at Council’s next regular meeting.