Faded lane lines create confusion on the Gardiner
Posted March 9, 2015 7:39 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Temporary lane lines painted on the Gardiner Expressway during construction have faded during a brutal winter, leaving drivers confused and potentially in danger, police say.
The lines have faded badly on the eastbound expressway where the Gardiner and Lake Shore split, as well as westbound near Humber.
“They’ve worn out, they’ve faded,” admitted Michael D’Andrea, Engineering and construction, City of Toronto.
“It makes it even more complicated…because of the salt staining on the expressway.”
The city says the weather has been too cold to repaint the lane dividers, but they are hoping to get crews out over the next week now that the weather is warmer.
Police are concerned that the faded lines are a safety hazard.
“Individuals have a tough enough time following the lanes with markings proper. As a result any time you take away those guides, people make mistakes,” said Const. Clint Stibbe.
“We don’t want to see any serious personal injuries or fatal collisions as a result of something that would entirely be preventable.”
One attorney said the city could be liable in the event of an accident.
“Under the City of Toronto Act, the city has a statutory obligation to ensure that all of its streets and highways are safe for its users. A lane disappearing would be a very huge problem for the city,” said lawyer John Mascarin.
