Transportation Department to re-evaluate traffic signal installation in Carlisle

For several weeks now, I’ve heard from many residents about their concerns for the planned installation of a traffic signal at Carlisle Road and Centre Road. More than 100 people have suggested that the signal would cause undue issues and possibly decrease safety. Given that traffic signals are designed to promote safety, it seemed like an odd disconnect between City planning and resident experiences.

I asked the City’s Transportation Division for the full history of this project and where things stand today. The decision to install traffic lights isn’t made lightly. It follows a strict process set by the Province of Ontario, based on real data—not public opinion. Traffic signals are only approved if they meet specific safety and traffic flow requirements, including:

• How many vehicles use the intersection

• Delays for side-street traffic

• Collision history

• Pedestrian volume

• A mix of factors

Over the years, residents have raised concerns about this intersection, including speeding, stop sign compliance, truck traffic, and overall safety. In 2016, the City made some improvements by adding curbs, sidewalks, better signs, and clearer crosswalks.

In 2018, a traffic study showed that a signal wasn’t fully needed yet, but the City agreed to check again later. By 2020, a second study found that traffic had increased significantly, and the intersection now met the criteria for a signal. Based on this data, the City moved forward with the project, and Council approved funding for design work in 2024, followed by a construction budget in 2025.

However, after hearing community feedback, construction is being paused. Instead, Transportation will do new studies to update the data and explore other options, like a traffic circle, while making sure safety remains the top priority. I’ll will be sure to keep the community updated as this work moves forward.