Muskoka Lakes council members voiced their approval of a reduced speed limit from Bala to Torrance on Tuesday, Oct. 23.
Committee of the whole agreed having a consistent 60-km/h speed limit in that area on Muskoka Road 169 would be safer than the current fluctuating speeds.
The proposed change, which originally went to the District of Muskoka, began through requests by local residents that the speed limit in the area be reduced and the community safety zone be extended from Bala. The district also received requests for a traffic light at Muskoka Road 13 (Southwood Road), or a 60-km/h speed zone from Bala to Gravenhurst.
In response to the two requests the district investigated the intersection on the August and September long weekends. The study concluded traffic signals should not be installed, but the speed limit should be reduced from 80 km/h to 60 km/h from Bala to Torrance.
The issue brought varying opinions when it was first raised at an engineering and public works meeting for the District of Muskoka three weeks earlier, on Oct. 3. The matter was deferred and sent to the township for their input.
At the township meeting, some raised their concerns about the area being a speed trap and that lights should be installed. In the end, Muskoka Lakes councillors agreed that a 60-km/h speed zone should be installed from Bala to a point about 300 metres east of the intersection of Muskoka Road 13 (Southwood Road) in Torrance.
The issue will be brought back to the district for final approval.