MTO reneges on traffic light

Clearview Township council is calling on the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) to investigate immediate installation of a traffic signal at Grand Trunk Road and Highway 26, the site of the commercial plaza in east Stayner that houses the new Foodland store.

Councillor Robert Walker noted that the municipality had previously been advised that a traffic signal would be installed prior to the opening of the McDonald’s restaurant.

The MTO is now saying no signal will be required until 2031 prompting Walker to ask, “Who had the bright idea to cancel the light? Was it the developer or the MTO? The increased traffic at that intersection poses a safety hazard, and they should also consider reducing the speed limit from 80 km/ hr to 60 km/hr.”

Walker says many motorists misjudge the distance as they round the corner on Highway 26 approaching Stayner, and he has seen a number of near misses.

“You now have four businesses using Grand Trunk Road, plus the Stayner Care Centre and area residents, plus increased truck traffic,” he said. “There is future development contemplated for that area and we should be thinking safety first.”