Oshawa city councillors are considering additional traffic calming measures along King Street to improve safety for pedestrians entering the downtown core, particularly near the Oshawa Creek Bridge.
The proposed changes could see one fewer traffic lane for drivers crossing the bridge, while pedestrians would benefit from new on-street parking spaces on the south side of King Street, creating a buffer between sidewalks and moving traffic.
The issue was debated during a special council meeting on Friday, following ongoing complaints from residents who regularly walk along King Street. Pedestrians have raised concerns about tight walking space, vehicles passing too closely from behind, and snow and ice buildup during winter months, which further restricts mobility.
“These conditions are very dangerous, especially for people using wheelchairs,” said Ward 1 Councillor Rosemary McConkey, highlighting accessibility concerns.
Council has already approved traffic calming measures on the east side of the bridge, where King Street was reduced from three lanes to two, with added parking between Centre Street and McMillan Drive/Queen Street. The next step under consideration is extending those measures west across the Oshawa Creek Bridge toward Midtown Drive, with the goal of slowing vehicles as they enter the downtown area and improving pedestrian safety.
Ward 4 Councillor Rick Kerr said he understands the risks firsthand. “I’ve walked that bridge countless times. There’s not a lot of room, and when cars are coming up behind you, there isn’t that degree of safety.”
The project is expected to be coordinated with a $765,000 bridge rehabilitation project, which includes reinforcing the structure and widening sidewalks to improve accessibility.
City staff also noted the changes would help with winter maintenance, as the bridge currently lacks adequate snow storage space, creating inefficiencies and safety risks for operations crews.
Council will continue reviewing the proposal as part of broader efforts to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility in Oshawa’s downtown core.
Photo Credits : Insauga
