Re: reduced speed limits

Apr 22, 2015

I wanted to address questions raised by Martyn Jenkyn (Letters, April 16) about a motion to investigate a speed limit on a section of Road #38 around the Hinchinbrooke Transmission Station.

The motion came about as a result of a number of discussions with families living along that stretch of the road. There had been a number of instances where cars came up on children as they were getting on and off the school bus – a combination of speed and visibility. Right now, some of those families have decided to drive their children each day instead of use the bus. As residents and ratepayers in my district and this township, I took the responsibility to bring this forward on their behalf for further investigation.

The motion was to have staff investigate the feasibility of such a limit at that location. This does not mean that there will be a speed limit, but it does mean that those households along that stretch of 38 will have their concerns considered. The final decision should reflect common sense and balance safety with the free flow of traffic.

The role of a councilor is to bring concerns to Council and staff for thoughtful consideration. Whether or not the motion passes, my job is to bring it to the table for debate. I cannot pick and choose who I represent. Each ratepayer and resident in Hinchinbrooke should feel that they can approach me about their concerns.

There is a bigger issue of speeding along 38. Many readers can probably name more than once where they had to take the shoulder at high speed because of tailgaters, or people attempting to pass with oncoming traffic. I am encouraged to see more regular patrols along 38 by the local OPP, and hope that their increased presence will make this corner, and all areas along 38, safer for all concerned.

Brent Cameron