August 29, 2013

The future of transit is here with the launch of the first section of the rapidway [red bus only lane] along Highway 7 from Bayview Avenue to Highway 404. There are a number of new improvements to Highway 7 for drivers to be aware of.

There is still the same number of lanes for traffic, plus the rapidway that runs down the centre of the road for viva vehicles. Motorists will need to yield to viva vehicles when they merge from the rapidway into the traffic lane.

Motorists will now access properties and streets more safely between intersections. Drivers will make left turns and U-turns using the dedicated left turn signals at the intersections. Once the dedicated left turn traffic signal is lit, drivers can safely make a U-turn and head back towards their destination.

Stay safe on the road by remaining alert to those around you and your surroundings.

Please be mindful of the following when travelling on Highway 7:

• There are new traffic patterns such as the new traffic signal timing, U-turns and dedicated bus lanes. Motorists need to be aware of cyclists and pedestrians crossing at the intersections.
• Pedestrians need to activate the walk signal by pushing the button. When the walk signal is lit, pedestrians can cross. It is unsafe to cross the street at any other point. Please watch for oncoming cars as they cross the street.
• Drivers should look for pedestrians and not use excessive speed when making a turn. Riders who exit the vivastation may not be visible to drivers.
• Rapidways are for viva vehicles only and are clearly delineated. Pedestrians are not permitted to walk down the rapidways and motorists should be careful when turning on Highway 7 to ensure they enter the correct lane.
• Cyclists now have their own dedicated lane marked in green. When waiting at the lights, the green box in front of traffic allows the cyclist to wait in a safe area visible to cars.

Construction of the Highway 7 rapidway from Highway 404 to Warden Avenue will continue until late 2014. Signs will be posted along this route to alert drivers as they approach lane closures and paving work that could cause traffic delays.

The transformation of this urban corridor will help to support growth and reduce traffic congestion. We thank you for your patience as we build for the future.