One of the main reasons GRIDLOCK is so common in Toronto is because many of our traffic lights do NOT reflect the actual traffic flow. For example, northbound-southbound traffic on one street, may be very heavy, yet the traffic lights give equal time to both directions, causing traffic back ups.

Ideally, the best way to reduce GRIDLOCK is to have excellent public transit so that motorists have a viable alternative. Unfortunately, the TTC is simply too slow and inefficient, and few motorists are willing to part with their cars because of   the current level of transit service. Therefore, dramatically improving transit is my highest priority.

Another major cause of GRIDLOCK, stems from the fact that traffic lights in this city are not synchronized. For example, drivers will often stop at consecutive red lights. If our traffic light system was better managed, drivers would not have to stop at every other intersection, and the traffic flow would move much more smoothly.

Other technology (which this city rarely uses) is available and in use in other cities around the world. For example, minor intersections could be equipped with sensors that only permit  traffic lights to  change if the sensors detect vehicles waiting in the perpendicular direction. Otherwise, the lights remain green. Currently, traffic lights are pre-programmed to turn red, even if there is no traffic in the other directions. This is not only time consuming and  frustrating  for drivers, but also contributes to pollution..

Solving GRIDLOCK at intersections where adjusting the traffic lights does not solve the problem (such as intersections with heavy traffic in all directions) is also possible. However, more dramatic measures need to be taken. The solution could be to tunnel underneath the intersection (creating an UNDERPASS) that would allow for a constant flow of traffic. Whether you drive a car or use public transit, is in all of our collective interest to address GRIDLOCK. Voting for Robert Freedland will give you a voice, and ensure that this issue is vigorously addressed and put on this city’s agenda.