Following intense community advocacy and a recent multi-vehicle collision near Kincardine Township-Tiverton Public School (KTTPS), provincial officials have committed to key traffic safety measures along Hwy 21.
Kincardine Councillor Rory Cavanagh confirmed that the Ontario Ministry of Transportation will move forward with a speed reduction along Hwy 21 and begin designing a dedicated northbound left-turn lane at the school entrance.
The announcement follows widespread local reaction to a serious crash on the highway earlier this week. In a message shared with residents, Cavanagh noted the overwhelming response from the community following the collision.
"My post yesterday was seen more than 26,000 times, and many of you didn't just read it," Cavanagh said. "You shared it, you wrote, you called, and you texted. Thank you for caring."
Following Wednesday's municipal council meeting, Cavanagh spoke directly with Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson, who has supported local highway safety improvements since 2023. Cavanagh noted that Premier Doug Ford has also been in touch directly with local residents who reached out to his office.
The planned speed reduction will span Hwy 21 from North Line to Bruce Avenue, covering a crucial stretch that serves students at KTTPS, Huron Heights, St. Anthony’s, and the future site of Kincardine's new high school.
While local leaders welcomed the provincial commitment, Cavanagh emphasized that advocacy efforts will continue until physical construction takes place.
"Our message was heard," Cavanagh stated. "This is good news, but it isn't done until it's on the ground. A design on paper doesn't make anyone safer; the lane needs to be built."
He added that he will continue following up with provincial officials until both the speed reduction and the turn lane installation are completed. In the meantime, motorists are being urged to exercise extra caution and slow down in school zones throughout the area.
Tuesday afternoon's collision involved four passenger vehicles. According to witnesses, Ornge helicopters responded. Police confirmed two people sustained life-threatening injuries, while another person sustained serious injuries.
