Northumberland County has completed the installation of new speed limit signage at 18 locations across the region, implementing updated speed safety zones to support safer, more consistent travel through area communities.
The changes include the introduction and extension of “transition zones” between rural areas with higher speed limits and built-up areas with lower speed limits. In many cases, a 60 km/h zone has been added between existing 80 km/h and 50 km/h areas, allowing for a more gradual reduction in speed. These adjustments are now in place across all identified locations.
“Public safety is always our top priority,” states Denise Marshall, Director of Public Works. “With all new signage now installed, these revised speed zones reflect best practices for gradual speed transitions, especially in and around residential areas and hamlets. They also respond directly to feedback we’ve received from the community about improving road safety.”
Speed zone updates have been completed in areas including Brighton, Grafton, Castleton, Morganston, Camborne, Centreton, Warkworth, Roseneath, Dartford, Hilton, and Hastings.
These updates follow Council’s approval of amendments to the County’s speed limit by-law in September 2024, based on recommendations from the County’s Transportation Master Plan and a review by staff using provincial and national safety guidelines. The changes aim to reduce collision risks, improve compliance with the Ontario Traffic Manual (OTM), and respond to resident concerns about speeding in local hamlets and communities.
These by-law amendments built on work started in 2022 to standardize speed limits across the County, with updates in 2023 to address school zones. The current changes expand this safety-first approach to additional rural and semi-rural communities.
“Safe road design is a shared responsibility,’ adds Ms. Marshall. “These changes represent another step forward to creating road environments that are predictable, safe, and in line with modern transportation standards.”
A complete listing of locations where speed changes are now in effect is available in the September 5, 2024 Public Works Committee Report.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
