Middlesex County is committed to keeping roads safe for everyone who uses them. Community Safety Zones are designated areas on County roads where public safety is of special concern due to increased pedestrian activity and nearby community spaces, such as schools and parks.
These zones are established by a County by-law under provincial legislation and are designed to encourage safer driving behaviour and reduce the risk and severity of collisions.
What is a Community Safety Zone?
A Community Safety Zone is a clearly signed section of roadway designated under the Highway Traffic Act where driver awareness and caution are especially important.
Community Safety Zones are typically located near places where people are more likely to be walking, cycling, or crossing the road, including schools, playgrounds, parks, and other community facilities.
All Community Safety Zones in Middlesex County are in effect 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round.
Why Community Safety Zones Matter
Slower speeds save lives. Community Safety Zones help protect vulnerable road users, including children, families, seniors, and pedestrians, by reinforcing driving behaviour in areas where people gather.
By designating these zones, Middlesex County is taking a proactive step to:
- Improve road safety in high-priority locations
- Reduce the likelihood and severity of traffic-related injuries
- Support safety, more livable communities
Community Safety Zone Locations
- County Road 49 (Catherine Street) in the vicinity of Northdale Central Public School and St. David Catholic School
- County Road 6 (Kerwood Road) in the vicinity of Kerwood Ball Park
Speed Limits and Enforcement
Drivers must obey the posted speed limit within all Community Safety Zones. Under provincial legislation, speeding offences committed within a Community Safety Zone may carry higher penalties than similar offences outside of a zone.
Police officers may enforce Community Safety Zones under the Community Safety and Policing Act.
FAQ
| Are Community Safety Zones only active during school hours? | No, Community Safety Zones in Middlesex County are in effect at all times, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. |
| Do speed limits change in a Community Safety Zone? | Drivers must follow the posted speed limit shown on roadway signs. The designation emphasizes the important of compliance and allows for enhanced penalties under provincial law. |
| How were these locations in Middlesex County selected? | Locations were identified based on safety considerations, surrounding land uses, and areas with higher pedestrian activity. |
| Will more Community Safety Zones be added in the future? | Yes. County Council may consider additional locations as part of ongoing road safety reviews. |
Learn More
For more information, view the full Community Safety Zones By-law No. 7387 or contact Middlesex County Transportation Services.