Community Safety Zones have been created in school areas in Amherstview, Odessa and Amherst Island. These zones are clearly signposted for a maximum driving speed of 40 km/h and are sections of road where public safety is of special concern.
Additional signs are posted at the entry and exit points showing the legal limits of the zone. Rules of the road do not change inside the designated zones, but the penalties for violations are significantly increased. Speed limits outside the zone are not affected.
Community Safety Zones are areas with lots of pedestrians, typically near schools and signposted to reinforce safe and careful driving. Traffic fines are doubled in these zones to encourage drivers to slow down and drive carefully. Where there are no posted speed limits, the MTO Driver's Handbook states that the maximum speed is 50km/h in cities, towns and villages.
Location maps for Loyalist's Community Safety Zones
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Township streets with reduced speed limits |
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County roads with Community Safety Zones |
These roads have Community Safety Zones, but do not have reduced speed limits. |
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Amherst Island Community Safety Zone Map |
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Amherstview Community Safety Zone Map |
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Bath Community Safety Zone Map |
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Odessa Community Safety Zone Map |
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FAQs
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When did Loyalist Council approve the Community Safety Zones? |
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Resolution 2024-144 on June 11, 2024
Highway Traffic Act In June 1998, the Province of Ontario passed Bill 26 to promote public safety through the creation of Community Safety Zones. The bill, and its regulatory changes, are targeted at improving road safety in Ontario. Under section 214.1 of the Highway Traffic Act, "The Council of a municipality may by by-law designate a part of a highway under its jurisdiction as a Community Safety Zone if, in the Council's opinion, public safety is of special concern on that part of a highway." |
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What is a Community Safety Zone? |
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It is a designated area where additional measures are put in place to increase safety, typically around schools, playgrounds, and residential areas. These measures can include stricter speed limits, increased police presence, and enhanced road signage. |
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Why are Community Safety Zones important? |
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They help protect vulnerable populations such as children and pedestrians. By enforcing stricter safety regulations, these zones aim to reduce accidents and improve overall safety in the area. |
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Where are Community Safety Zones usually located? |
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What should I do if I notice unsafe conditions in a Community Safety Zone? |
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Report any unsafe conditions or concerns to Loyalist Township Roads Department. Providing details and specific locations can help us address the issue more effectively. Unsafe Driving behaviour, including speeding and reckless driving, should be directed to the Local OPP Detachment in Odessa. |
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Are there any enforcement programs specific to Community Safety Zones? |
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Provincial legislation allows automated enforcement. These programs can include speed cameras/light boards, automated speed indication signage for drivers and increased patrols by traffic officers. Targeted safety campaigns can educate drivers about the important of safety measures and containing vehicle speed where there are likely to be many pedestrians. |
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Who makes the decision to approve the location of a Community Safety Zone? |
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The decision usually lies with the local government or municipality and often made by city council, town council, County Council or other relevant local governing body. Before designating an area as a community safety zone, a number of factors are considered: traffic flow, accident history, proximity to schools or other high-risk areas, and community input. |
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