Dundas Place vehicle access restricted to increase cyclist, pedestrian safety

In an effort to create a safer space for cyclists and pedestrians during the busy construction season downtown, vehicle restrictions are being tightened on Dundas Place.

As of Thursday, vehicles will be prohibited from entering the flex street from either end at Wellington Street and Ridout Street.

Large planters are being placed at both ends of Dundas Place to prevent vehicular through traffic. Drivers picking up takeout or making deliveries to one of the many restaurants and businesses along the four-block stretch will still be able to turn onto Dundas  from Talbot, Richmond, and Clarence streets. Vehicles will also be able to exit the street from Wellington and Ridout.

Temporary traffic restrictions on Dundas Place. Graphic courtesy of the City of London.

Pedestrian and cyclist access to the street will remain unrestricted and those peddling through the downtown will still be able to use the two general traffic lanes.

The move to restrict in-bound vehicle access at Ridout and Wellington streets was first introduced during last year’s construction season. City officials have said the restrictions  improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists by decreasing the volume of vehicles and through-traffic on the street.

Drivers whose commute takes them east and west through the downtown area are advised to use Queens Avenue, Dufferin Avenue, and York Street instead of Dundas Place.

To help businesses cope with the construction, the city is also offering two-hour complimentary parking at municipal lots and on-street locations downtown. To access the free parking, drivers have to enter promo code ‘CORE’ in the Honk app or contact Parking Services at 519-661-4537.

The restrictions on Dundas Place will be in place until November.

Read original story from London Ontario – BlackburnNews.com