‘THE FLATS’ GET SAFETY BARRIERS STARTING NEXT WEEK DESPITE BUSINESS COMPLAINTS

Mark Clairmont | MuskokaTODAY.com

BRACEBRIDGE — After a frosty reception from business owners, a strip of Hwy. 118 west here will see drivers facing big changes next week.

Work to “improve safety” on the section of The Flats will continue the coming weeks “to improve travel for residents, businesses and visitors,” says a District of Muskoka release late today.

That means barriers along the five-lane stretch in front of McDonald’s where the owner fears it will drive customers to Hortons up the road.

Right in and right out will be the rules of the road in ‘The Flats’ starting next week as barriers begin going up along Hwy. 118 West in Bracebridge. Photos Mark Clairmont

District councillors approved the changes after business owners complained.

Accidents on the stretch prompted the changes, staff say.

Staff say with The Flats being identified as an area of concern for many motorists, the district was eager to take the next steps to provide safer travel for everyone.

As early as next week, and weather dependent, crews will begin installation of barriers to remove left turn movements and introduce right-in, right-out access only.

The improvements will be installed between the Balls Drive intersection and the traffic signals east of Westmall Road at the Food Basics Plaza.

Signalized intersections will continue to operate as normal with full turning movements available.

The move is an interim measure designed to immediately address left-turn conflicts while plans for long-term improvements are developed.

Motorists can expect delays while crews are at work.

To ensure worker safety, single lane closures will be in place during installation, with minimal impact on traffic flow. Once underway, installation is expected to be completed within two to three days.

This will be a no no starting next week as left-hand turns heading east from west won’t be allowed. Drivers will be directed to the two traffic lights at either ends. The same applies driving west to Port Carling.

What to expect:

  • Signs will be installed at key locations to remind drivers how to navigate the changes safely and to reach their destination.
  • Barricades are designed to withstand Muskoka’s weather, including winter road conditions.
  • Traffic data will be collected and analyzed until this fall to help determine long-term improvement plans.
  • Line painting to occur once weather conditions allow.
  • Pedestrian crossings will remain in place at both sets of signalized intersections.

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