Residents of a London neighborhood are expressing frustration over the increased traffic flow of cars and commercial trucks using their street as a shortcut due to ongoing construction on Wellington Road. The residents of High Street, situated between Commissioners Road East and Grand Avenue, have noted a surge in traffic since the commencement of phase two of the Wellington Gateway bus rapid transit project in May.
The construction activities at the Commissioners and Wellington roads intersection, which is a major traffic hub in London, have resulted in lane closures and traffic delays expected to persist until 2028. High Street resident Margaret Dow shared her concerns, mentioning how the heavy trucks passing through the area cause disturbances, including shaking her house, damaging internet and cable lines, and creating excessive noise, preventing her from opening windows on pleasant days.
Even though signs on Commissioners Road prohibit heavy trucks from entering High Street, residents like Dow have observed transport trucks, cement mixers, and dump trucks flouting the rules and using the street regularly. Narek Papian, another resident on High Street, expressed frustration over the high volume of traffic, particularly impacting his family’s ability to enjoy outdoor activities like biking due to congestion during peak hours.
Residents like Papian and Dow are calling for enhanced enforcement of truck traffic regulations and implementation of traffic calming measures to address the situation. They emphasize the need for obstacles to slow down speeding vehicles. The city’s director of transportation and mobility, Doug MacRae, mentioned the city’s proactive approach in deploying temporary calming measures before major construction projects and adjusting strategies based on feedback from residents.
While some parts of High Street already have permanent speed cushions, the city continues to analyze feedback and consider additional measures to mitigate traffic issues. Residents living north of Base Line Road on High Street have experienced similar challenges with large commercial trucks causing disturbances despite existing traffic-calming efforts. Patrick Clancy highlighted the inadequacy of current measures in addressing the problems caused by truck traffic.
Residents have taken steps to address the issue by engaging with city officials, including Ward 11 Coun. Skylar Franke and London police, to seek solutions. The London Police Service has conducted targeted enforcement in the area, emphasizing consequences for non-compliance with traffic regulations. Dissatisfied with the current responses, residents have resorted to community engagement, gathering signatures and sharing concerns through various platforms to advocate for change.
As residents continue to voice their traffic concerns, the city encourages them to utilize the online Service London portal to report issues and request support. Additionally, residents can request front lawn signs to promote road safety and encourage compliance with traffic regulations.