Responding to resident concerns about safety in downtown Minden – in light of a new school board policy making children walk 1.6 km to Archie Stouffer Elementary School – staff reported back to council Oct. 31 about safe movement in the core.
Council had asked staff on Sept. 26 to look into crossing guards.
CAO Cynthia Fletcher noted the township has already been working on the file. For example, in the summer, they expanded the existing community safety zone to include all of Water Street and the remaining portion of Bobcaygeon Road through Minden village. The roads department has also installed four digital speed limit signs to help slow traffic.
The CAO added mayor Bob Carter, and Dysart mayor Murray Fearrey, recently met with Trillium Lakelands District School Board (TLDB) officials; and plan to contact MPP Laurie Scott to request a meeting with the Ministry of Transportation.
Fletcher added, “there are several potential changes to infrastructure that staff are exploring.” However, she said they have to investigate further and crunch some numbers for budget deliberations.
One thought is pedestrian crosswalks on Bobcaygeon Road, and, or Water Street, with locations to be determined. Fletcher said they could remove the two courtesy crosswalks on Bobcaygeon Road and install a “proper” one. There could be another on Water Street near the footbridge. She said they would need to develop concept renderings, get public input and do a traffic study. The crosswalks would have to be approved under the Highway Traffic and Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities acts.
Staff are also working on a proposal to upgrade sidewalks and ramps for better access to all pedestrians, including those with mobility issues. There may be grant money available.
Fletcher said they could also look into lowering the speed limit on Bobcaygeon Road.
When it comes to crossing guards, she said it would be something new for the township and needs more investigation. They are governed under the Highway Traffic Act and there are many requirements, such as certification, on-going training, supervision, and safety equipment, among others.
“Staff intend to have further conversation with the OPP, local school and colleague municipalities who offer this service,” she said.
They could also investigate a Walking School Bus program, the CAO reported.
“Like a motorized bus, there is a planned route with scheduled pick-up points or ‘stops’… which has many benefits for children and families, including safety, better health, and socializing with friends and neighbours.” Coun. Pam Sayne did question liability under such a program.
Deputy mayor Lisa Schell said she is worried TLDSB will continue to increase walking distances. “I don’t want to stop putting pressure on the school board. It’s their responsibility. I don’t want the townships to take it on and let them get away with doing whatever the heck they want.”
Coun. Tammy McKelvey agreed with the “need to put pressure on… if they can’t do busing, they can do crossing guards. People need to be encouraged to contact the school board to do the job they are supposed to be doing.”
The staff report was received for information.
