Tecumseh residents want public to obey construction signage to reduce traffic and safety risks

Some residents in Tecumseh are concerned about traffic safety considering the ongoing and necessary infrastructure projects on Riverside Drive East.

At issue are drivers who ignore construction “detour” and “road closure” signs in the community. This has led to a high volume of traffic on residential side roads – which would not be the case under normal circumstances.

The Riverside Drive East construction is multi-layered, involving addressing the Scully Pump Station upgrades and extensive road work, including sewers, resurfacing and curb construction. The pump station work has been ongoing for over a year and will possibly be completed by the end of the year.

For area residents Hunt Hool and Michael Papillo, the signage needs to be corrected regarding the proper detour routes, and more signage enforcement would help to curb those who choose to disobey the law.

“We think that we need correcting some signs in particular, getting the people to follow the proper detour at Manning Road instead of coming down Riverside Drive and going up Grant into the neighborhood - which then causes the possibility of harm or accidents,” said Hool.

When asked about the potential for accidents, Michael Papillo is concerned about safety for everyone – especially for children in the neighbourhood.

“Yes – absolutely,” said Papillo. “Especially when they’re getting out on the roadside. So now I’m telling my adult kids to make sure my grand boys get off on the curbside.”

Both Hool and Papillo have reached out to the construction company, Tecumseh town officials and authorities to voice their concerns. They recognize that these construction projects – while necessary and welcomed in the long run – require the entire community to be patient, law-abiding and courteous.

So far, all parties concerned are in ongoing communication and are willing to work together to solve key safety and traffic volume issues going forward.

Following the Scully Pump Station project - the St. Mark’s Pump Station (also on Riverside Drive) is due for work.

Construction in this neighbourhood will be ongoing for many months ahead.