Establishment of Ontario Rural Road Safety Program

This disproportionate risk necessitates immediate action. Simultaneously, municipal insurance premiums continue to rise. In the absence of joint and several liability reform, municipalities must explore innovative ways to manage risk, particularly on their roads. This program is critical to addressing the alarming rise in fatalities and injuries on rural roads in our province. As the data clearly demonstrates, rural roads disproportionately pose a greater risk to drivers and pedestrians, despite representing a smaller portion of the population. The program's multifaceted approach, which includes targeted safety audits, installation of modern safety infrastructure, and a focus on cost-effectiveness, offers a promising solution to this pressing issue. By the Province investing in rural road safety, we can not only save lives but also alleviate the burden on our healthcare system and reduce the financial strain on municipalities. I am requesting that the City Council adopt this resolution supporting this program and forward it to the Premier and Minister of Transportation. By acting now, The City of Toronto can demonstrate support and commitment to the safety of all Ontarians and make a significant difference in reducing road fatalities. Good Roads believes, the program is not only important for rural communities but also has broader implications for the entire province. By improving road safety in rural areas, we can reduce the number of accidents that occur on major highways and improve overall traffic flow. We urge you to prioritize this issue and take immediate action to support the Ontario Rural Road Safety Program. Thank you for your immediate attention to this urgent matter.

Lisa Thompson, Minister of Rural Affairs, the Hon. Trevor Jones, Associate Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response, the Hon. Sylvia Jones, Minister of Health, and the Good Roads Association.