Yesterday, Councillor Rachael Chernos Lin shared an update on new rush-hour turn restrictions aimed at reducing cut-through traffic and congestion on Donlea Drive. Her full message, originally shared in a local Facebook group, appears below:
I have just been advised that no-left-turn signage is being installed today on Eglinton Ave E between Brentcliffe Rd and Don Avon Dr. These signs indicate a turn prohibition between 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. onto Eglinton Avenue E from Brentcliffe Rd and Don Avon Dr.
Following a unanimous vote at North York Community Council, City Council approved my motion to implement these turn prohibitions on May 21. No-left-turn signs at Don Avon and Brentcliffe Rd, as well as advance information signs, at Hanna Rd, Rumsey Rd, Sutherland Dr, and Laird Dr, will be installed this morning.
By my request, Toronto Police Service – 53 Division will have officers present on Thursday and Friday to enforce these changes. Waze has incorporated new turn restrictions into its trip suggestions and the City has requested that Google Maps do the same.
In the months since my election, the situation on Donlea Dr has reached a breaking point with immense traffic volumes and unprecedented congestion, leading to access issues and dangerous driving incidents. After exploring many options in consultation with staff, turn prohibitions emerged as a quick and effective tool to implement. The new prohibitions aim to alleviate congestion while minimizing disruptions to neighbouring streets – ensuring residents can still reach their homes.
As directed by my motion, Transportation Services staff will be closely monitoring these changes, including initial adjustment issues and the impacts of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT, once it opens. Congestion management and road safety are top priorities for me as your City Councillor, and my office will be continuing to look at strategies to manage the high volumes of traffic throughout Leaside.
Councillor Rachel Chernos Lin, via FacebookCommunity reaction to the update was mixed. Some residents are optimistic the changes will help calm traffic, while others voiced concerns about spillover congestion or lax enforcement. A few also offered suggestions for further improvements.
Love it or loathe it, are traffic woes just part of life in the big city?