After Ex-Officer's Criticism, Road Diet for Madelaine Drive Near Mapleview Drive Put on Hold

Traffic safety continues to be a major concern for residents in several parts of Barrie, especially in the city’s rapidly growing south end near Mapleview Drive. This bustling corridor, lined with big box stores like Costco and flanked by expanding industrial zones, has seen a significant uptick in traffic volume, and residents say it's making local streets increasingly unsafe.

Among the loudest voices calling for change is Barrie resident and former police officer David Hembruff, who recently urged City Council to install a 4-way stop at the intersection of Country Lane and Madeline Drive. Hembruff, who has served as an expert witness in Ontario courts on traffic regulation and enforcement, told Simcoe Community Media that the street has essentially turned into a “NASCAR track,” with vehicles routinely speeding through what is supposed to be a quiet residential area.

Mayor Alex Nuttall acknowledged the severity of the issue, attributing it to a mix of poor urban planning and the city's rapid growth. He explained that while Madeline Drive was originally intended as a residential road, it has unintentionally evolved into an arterial thoroughfare due to increased development and traffic diversion from nearby commercial zones. “We need a long-term, sustainable solution to ensure the safety of both drivers and residents,” said Nuttall, adding that while the proposed road diet is on the table, the City is also open to other measures, such as 4-way stops and additional traffic signals.

Ward 9 Councillor Sergio Morales, who represents the affected neighbourhood, expressed support for the road diet proposal. He argued that narrowing the lanes would serve to naturally reduce vehicle speeds and enhance safety, all while preserving street parking and adhering to current municipal guidelines. Morales emphasized that the plan was developed in consultation with city staff and was compliant with existing legislation.

However, Hembruff remained skeptical of the road diet's effectiveness, arguing it could worsen the problem by encouraging more aggressive driving behaviour in tighter spaces. He maintained that a straightforward 4-way stop would be a quicker, cheaper, and more reliable solution. “It’s common sense,” said Hembruff. “Drivers respond to clear signage, and a stop sign is harder to ignore than a painted line.”

The debate prompted a lengthy discussion at the Council meeting, with several councillors raising questions about enforcement, traffic flow, and the feasibility of different options. In the end, Council voted to refer the road diet proposal back to City staff for further review. Staff will now be tasked with exploring a broader range of alternatives aimed at improving traffic safety in the area.

For residents like Hembruff, the decision signals progress—but also underscores the urgency of getting it right. “We can’t afford to wait until there’s a serious accident,” he warned. “People deserve to feel safe in their own neighbourhoods.”