As part of the City’s Vision Zero Road Safety Plan Transportation Services is introducing in-road flexible speed signage in each Ward. These are signs installed in the centre of the road, serving as an additional tool in our road safety toolkit to encourage compliance with the posted speed limit in high-priority areas. The installation serves as both a visual reminder of the posted speed limit and a physical device to slow motor vehicle speeds as they pass the sign. The signs can have a narrowing effect on the lane or roadway which can give people driving the perception of the need to slow down. This program along with the various other measures available in the Vision Zero toolbox are designed to have a positive impact on reducing speeding and improving overall road safety.
The In-Road Flexible Speed Signage Guideline was made in consultation with several internal and external stakeholder groups to ensure that the roadway still operates as designed to maximize the safety benefit of this tool. The signs are meant to be installed on two-way roads with one travel lane in each direction, designed parking areas or parking prohibitions to maintain a clear through lane, and with a posted speed limit not exceeding 40km/h.
As part of the initial rollout, City staff have identified locations using a data-driven model that prioritizes midblock segments based on estimated safety risk as well as through the School Safety Zone program. These locations have been assessed using guidelines to ensure they do not impact existing service levels or interrupt the use of driveways. The majority of locations will receive two signs depending on the configuration of the road.
The 10 schools where signs were installed during the pilot phase are as follows:
| School Name | Street Name |
|---|---|
| Milne Valley Middle School | Underhill Drive |
| Sloane Public School | Sloane Avenue |
| John McCrae Public School | McCowan Road |
| Sunnylea Junior School | Prince Edward Drive South |
| St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School | Glenholme Avenue |
| Oakwood Collegiate Institute | Oakwood Avenue |
| Blake Street Junior Public School | Boultbee Avenue |
| Hodgson Senior Public School | Davisville Avenue |
| Melody Village Junior Public School | Silverstone Drive |
| Holy Spirit Catholic Elementary School | Bay Mills Boulevard |