Construction-related complaints by residents in and around Wilson Road South in Oshawa, snaked their way from the office of Councillor Brian Nicholson, to the City of Oshawa, and through the Region of Durham to elicit a response from Ontario’s Ministry of Transport (MTO).
Work has started on a new overpass at Wilson Road, which is projected to lay the ground work for future widening of Highway 401, according to MTO (see below).
In addition to the Wilson Road overpass, the province is also replacing the Simcoe Street and Albert Street underpasses in Oshawa and rehabilitating two over-water bridges in Clarington, as well as the overpass at the Highway 35/115 interchange near Bowmanville and the Westney Road overpass on Highway 401 in Ajax.
Residents’ Complaints
“Over the last few months, and even more so in the last few weeks, I have been getting complaints about the actions of dump trucks and construction vehicles on Wilson Road South in the vicinity of Bloor Street East and the 401 highway,” said Nicholson in a social media post. “As a result of these complaints, I have been in contact with both the City of Oshawa and the Region of Durham to address community concerns.
He said he has received the following response from the region: “Region staff have been in contact with MTO regarding the speeding, idling, and parking complaints you have received from residents. Thank you for passing these along.
The region, according to Nicholson, said it will monitor and follow-up on compliance, and copied the following communication, which it said was issued by MTO to all partners involved in the Wilson Road project.
MTO Sets Rules
“Dear Partner,
As we enter the summer season, we are reminded of the increased activity in and around our project site at Wilson Road in Oshawa. With more pedestrians, children out of school, and families enjoying outdoor spaces, it is essential that we all take extra care to operate safely and respectfully.
We’ve received concerns from local residents and officials regarding vehicle speeds and behavior in residential areas near our work zones. These concerns include not only speeding but also excessive idling and inappropriate parking, which can negatively impact air quality, noise levels, and community trust.
To ensure the safety of both the public and our teams, we ask that all contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and staff observe the following:
- Obey All Traffic Laws: Speed limits, traffic signals, and local regulations must be followed at all times.
- Avoid Idling in Residential Areas: Turn off engines when parked or waiting. Idling contributes to air pollution and is often prohibited by local bylaws.
- Respect Community Spaces: Do not park or idle near homes, schools, parks, or other sensitive areas.
- Promote Shared Responsibility: All personnel are expected to monitor and reinforce safe and respectful driving behavior.
- Prepare for Increased Oversight: Local authorities may increase enforcement. Non-compliance may result in administrative action under contract terms.
Above all, the safety and well-being of our workers, operators, and the surrounding community is our top priority. Let’s work together to ensure everyone returns home safely at the end of each day.
Thank you for your continued cooperation and commitment to safety,” said the MTO.
Nicholson thanked everyone who contacted him on this issue and hoped the MTO action will have the desired effect. “If not, I can assure you that further action will be taken,” he added.
He pointed out there will be a lot of works for the next few years with all the bridges on the 401 and the CPR tracks being reconstructed, expanded or replaced. “It will be a major improvement when complete but will be chaotic until then. Bear with us,” he said.
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