Answers to Questions
- Rebuilding the road with a permanent median that continues to restrict left turns
- Water, storm, and sanitary sewer upgrades, including possible capacity increases
- Improvements for intersections and for people walking and cycling
Why are these changes being made?
Between January 2020 and October 2024, there were 29 collisions on this stretch of road, including one fatality. Many of these collisions were the result of left-turn and crossing movements.
By limiting left turns to signalized intersections in this busy area, navigating the Flats is safer and easier for everyone.
Are left-turn challenges unique to this area?
No. Busy roads across Ontario and beyond face similar challenges with left turns, especially in high-traffic areas.
As communities grow, adapting road designs to minimize left-turn conflicts has proven to help improve safety and traffic flow.
Are these changes permanent?
Yes. The left-turn restriction is a permanent solution to mitigate the safety risks posed by left-turn and crossing movements along this corridor.
However, the medians being installed this fall are a new temporary solution for left-turn restrictions until the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment is completed, which will inform the future reconstruction of this stretch of MR 118.
What's changing with the barriers?
The temporary concrete barriers installed in early 2025 are being replaced with a temporary concrete curb and asphalt median. This is a longer-lasting interim solution that will stay in place while the District completes a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA). The assessment will guide the permanent design for both the road and the water and sewer infrastructure below it.
The new curb and median will continue to prevent left turns at entrances, the same way the barriers did.
How will the District monitor these changes?
Traffic data, feedback from the community, and real-time monitoring will help us refine the changes and plan long-term solutions.
How do these updates support community growth?
These changes are part of a proactive plan to adapt to community growth by improving safety for pedestrians and motorists and keeping traffic flowing efficiently. The Municipal Class EA will also look at water, storm, and sanitary sewer capacity, to keep the infrastructure below the road on pace with growth.
What's next after this?
The District is working on a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for this stretch of Muskoka Road 118 West. The assessment will look at:
Will winter maintenance be affected?
No. Winter maintenance, including snow plowing and clearing has been carefully considered.
Barriers and updated traffic patterns are designed to work for our intense Bracebridge weather events, and will be put to the test, before the long-term solution is implemented.
Do I need to change the way I drive in this area?
Yes, but the changes are simple and straight-forward.
With right-in/right-out access replacing left turns, you’ll spend less time waiting and guessing.
Clear signage will guide you through the new traffic patterns. As with any road update, staying alert and following posted signs will help you navigate smoothly.
What about motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians?
We’re seeing more diverse road users than ever, including cyclists and motorcyclists.
By simplifying turning movements and reducing potential conflicts, these updates will improve safety for all types of vehicles, ensuring everyone can share the road safely.
Why now?
These changes weren’t decided overnight.
The District has been working with traffic experts and consultants, studying Muskoka Road 118 West for some time.
We have gathered traffic data and seasonal patterns, including recent unique patterns from spring and summer volumes this year, to make informed adjustments now—while planning for a lasting solution.
Bracebridge is growing, and it’s only getting busier. We need to adapt roads to meet the needs of our community, and keep everyone on the road safe.