Northumberland County is moving forward with improvements to the intersection of County Road 2, County Road 10, and County Road 74 (Dale Road) in the hamlet of Welcome in the Municipality of Port Hope. Construction is set to begin July 21 and will continue through to the end of October. No ‘full road’ closures are anticipated during this period.
Located just north of Highway 401, this intersection has long been recognized for its unconventional layout and safety challenges. A feasibility study, combined with traffic data and public consultation, guided the County’s decision to proceed with reconstruction while maintaining the existing three-way stop configuration.
“The Welcome intersection has a complex design that has contributed to driver confusion and raised safety concerns,” states Manager of Infrastructure Peter Deshane. “With this project, we’re making key upgrades that will improve safety for all road users while preserving traffic flow through this vital corridor.”
Key improvements will include:
· Realignment of approaching lanes and addition of a separated right turn lane
· Minor slope adjustments to improve driver visibility
· Installation of three new pedestrian crossings, including two with flashing beacons outside of the intersection and one within the intersection at the north approach on County Road 10
· New sidewalks and asphalt boulevards to enhance pedestrian safety and connectivity
· Upgraded signage, pavement markings, and overhead flashing beacons to clearly communicate the intersection layout and improve driver awareness
· Improved street lighting, including the relocation of existing lights and installation of new ones to improve nighttime safety and visibility
Each leg of the intersection will see upgrades, such as new turn lanes, removal of unnecessary turning lanes, and adjustments to medians and grades to streamline traffic movement.
Construction will be phased to allow alternating traffic, shifting between one and two lanes as required.
In the event of an incident on Highway 401 requiring activation of the Emergency Detour Route (EDR), both lanes through the construction zone will be reopened to accommodate the detour traffic.
“We want to thank the community for their input into the design and for their patience during construction,” adds Deshane. “These improvements are designed with long-term safety in mind and will result in a more accessible and efficient intersection for both local residents and visitors.”
For more details and project updates, please visit Northumberland.ca/ WelcomeIntersection.
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
