FAQs

Construction is happening in phases. Some areas are still being prepared this fall and will be completed in spring 2026. For more details, please see the Documents and Project Timeline section at www.engagemuskoka.ca/mr117-baysville

Yes. MR117 is a busy road with fast-moving traffic, especially during the summer months when volumes are high. Surveys and public feedback raised concerns about speeding and safety. Turning from connected roads like Brunel during peak times can be unsafe due to limited visibility and high traffic volumes. The roundabout was chosen as the best solution to calm traffic, create a welcoming gateway into the community, enhance safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians, and keep traffic moving smoothly and efficiently.

More than 90% of traffic on Muskoka Road 117 continues straight through Baysville, while only a small portion turns onto or off the connecting roads. A 4-way stop or traffic signals would disrupt that flow, causing unnecessary delays and congestion. The roundabout allows continuous movement while significantly improving safety for all road users.

Yes. According to the Traffic Injury Research Foundation (TIRF), roundabouts are significantly safer and more efficient than traditional intersections:

• Severe crashes (injury or fatality) are reduced by 78–82% compared to stop signs or traffic signals
• Pedestrian conflict points drop from 24 to 8, and roundabouts are 30% safer for pedestrians compared to signalized intersections
• Traffic delays and stops can be reduced by up to 74%, improving flow and reducing emissions
• A standard 4-way intersection has 32 vehicle conflict points, while a roundabout has just 8, dramatically lowering collision risk
  1. Roundabouts significantly reduce the most severe types of collisions, such as head-ons and T-bones by replacing them with lower speed, side-swipe or merging conflicts.
• Typically, the lower speeds of roundabouts make collisions less severe

MR117 in Baysville was a key public concern during consultation for the Township of Lake of Bays Community Improvement Plan (CIP) in 2023, which included two surveys with nearly 500 responses. Feedback highlighted the need for improved pedestrian safety, traffic calming, and streetscape enhancements. This project directly implements the priorities identified in the CIP.

This project is jointly funded by the District of Muskoka and the Township of Lake of Bays, with $2,147,770 from the District and $1,199,600 from the Township. Together, they represent a total of $3,347,370 invested into the Baysville area.

The roundabout acts as a visual “gateway” into the community, signalling to drivers that they’re entering a populated area. The project also includes enhanced streetscaping, sidewalks and raised pedestrian crossings. These upgrades help to support local economic growth, better connectivity for businesses, residents, and visitors, and helps to create inviting spaces where people want to stop, explore, and connect.

No. All construction is taking place entirely within the municipality’s existing right-of-way.

We understand that many residents have parked along the shoulder of MR117 for years. While those spots weren’t officially designated, they’ve long felt like part of Baysville’s parking. As part of the revitalization, the shoulder will be replaced with curbs, new sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and a multi-use trail, making it safer and easier to walk around Baysville and reach nearby designated parking areas.

On-street parking is available on many of the side roads in Baysville, which have historically been underused. Overflow parking is expected to shift to these areas. As part of the project, wayfinding signage will be installed to help drivers better find available overflow parking areas.

No. The project has been designed to work with the existing snowmobile route.