Residents of High Street in London’s Old South neighborhood are expressing frustration over the influx of cars and commercial trucks using their street as a shortcut due to ongoing construction on Wellington Road. The construction, part of the Wellington Gateway bus rapid transit project’s second phase, has led to increased traffic in the area since May.
Margaret Dow, a long-time resident of High Street, highlighted the disturbances caused by the heavy trucks passing through the street, shaking houses and disrupting daily life. Despite signs prohibiting heavy trucks on High Street, residents have observed transport trucks, cement mixers, and dump trucks ignoring the restrictions.
Narek Papian, another resident, voiced concerns about the high volume of traffic on High Street, especially during peak hours, making it challenging for residents to navigate the area safely. He also noted a prevalent speeding culture on the street, raising safety concerns, particularly for children.
Residents like Papian and Dow are calling for increased enforcement of truck traffic regulations and the implementation of traffic calming measures to address the issues. City officials, including Doug MacRae, the director of transportation and mobility, acknowledged the need for proactive measures to manage traffic flow and ensure safety during construction projects.
While some sections of High Street already have permanent speed cushions in place, residents are advocating for additional measures to mitigate the impact of heavy truck traffic. Despite existing traffic calming features, residents have experienced challenges with truck drivers disregarding regulations and causing damage to properties along the street.
Efforts to address the situation include residents reaching out to local authorities, such as Ward 11 Coun. Skylar Franke and London police, to address traffic concerns and enforce regulations. Neighbors have also engaged in community initiatives to raise awareness and garner support for improved traffic management in the area.
As residents continue to advocate for solutions to the traffic issues on High Street, city officials encourage the community to provide feedback through the city’s online portal and actively participate in initiatives aimed at promoting road safety and compliance with traffic regulations.