Dear Editor:
On June 19, 15 residents of Frederick St. W., Edward and Francis Streets in Arthur came together to discuss the increasing road and street safety issues within these residential areas.
The discussion included concerns about increased traffic (including commercial vehicles and farm vehicles), the lack of pedestrian friendly walkways, the increasing number of speeding vehicles, and the lack of signage alerting drivers to the presence of children, dog-walkers, the elderly and adults experiencing mobility issues.
Recently, several potentially serious events forced this topic to be prioritized — a serious car accident, the taking down of an Eastlink overhead wire, and a dog being fatally struck by a car.
Please note that these concerns are not in isolation of other complaints (including young people skateboarding down the Frederick Street West dip in the road where speeding drivers would not have time to stop) but rather that these particular three incidents happened within such a short time frame that the subject of street safety could no longer be ignored.
During the discussion, it was mentioned that posted speed limits around Arthur are 50km/h, and in school zones 30km/h. But on Frederick Street West — a street formerly designated as commercial-residential, there are no signs indicating that drivers are moving from the commercial area of Arthur into a residential neighbourhood. Additionally, it is important to note that Frederick Street West and Francis Street are not shortcuts to the beer store, particularly if it endangers young children living in the area.
With population growth and more young families moving to Arthur, it is essential that these safety concerns be addressed so that it remains an attractive and safe place for current and future residents.
If you have similar concerns regarding street safety in Arthur, please add your voice to our initiative by contacting the Arthur Chamber of Commerce.
Melissa Kooiman,
For Concerned Arthur Residents