Whether you’re walking, biking, driving, or taking transit, this page is your go-to resource for getting around our community safely and responsibly. Here you’ll find helpful information on pedestrian crossovers, road safety tips, active transportation options, and local services designed to keep everyone moving with confidence.
Let’s work together to make our streets safe and accessible for all.
In 2022, the Township of Wellington North completed an assessment of four intersections within Wellington North to evaluate traffic volumes and site conditions to determine if they would meet the warrants for the installation of traffic signals or pedestrian crossovers (PXO), consistent with Ontario Traffic Manual (OTM) Books 12 (Traffic Signals) and 15 (Pedestrian Crossing Treatments).
The review recommended Level 2, Type B PXOs be installed at the intersections. The PXOs were designed using the guidance provided in OTM Book 15 and engineering judgement. The guidelines in the various books of the Ontario Traffic Manual promote uniformity of treatment in the design, application and operation of traffic control devices and systems across Ontario and are consistent with the intent of the Highway Traffic Act (HTA).
You'll recognize a Level 2 PXO by:
- Ladder crosswalk markings
- Yield line (shark teeth markings)
- Black on white pedestrian crossing signs
Level 2 Type B PXOs also include actuated double-sided rectangular rapid flashing beacons with tell tale indicators and pedestrian pushbutton.
Below is an example of a typical Level 2 Type B PXO:
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The Township of Wellington North has recently installed PXOs at the following intersections:
- Main Street North at Durham Street, Mount Forest
- Smith Street at Conestoga Street, Arthur
A PXO is a controlled crossing, which requires vehicles, including cyclists, to come to a complete stop and yield the entire width of the roadway while waiting for pedestrians legally in the crossing to clear the road. Pedestrians have the right-of-way at controlled crossings.
For Drivers:
- Be prepared to stop for pedestrians.
- Stop behind the yield line when a pedestrian indicates they want to cross.
- Make eye contact to ensure the pedestrian sees you.
- Wait until the pedestrian has completely crossed the entire roadway.
- Do not pass other vehicles within 30 metres of the crossover.
Penalties for Drivers Who Endanger Pedestrians
As of September 1, 2018, penalties for drivers who endanger pedestrians include fines up to $1,000 and 4 demerit points for failing to yield to pedestrians at crossovers, school crossings, and crosswalks with a crossing guard present. Visit the Ministry of Transportation website for more information.
For Pedestrians:
- Push the button (only applicable to Level 2 Type B and C PXOs) to indicate you want to cross.
- Wait for traffic to stop in both directions.
- Make eye contact to ensure drivers see you.
- Cross when it is safe to do so.
For Cyclists:
- When riding with traffic, follow the rules for drivers.
- When crossing, follow the rules for pedestrians: dismount and walk your bike across.
Crossing guards in the Township of Wellington North are responsible for helping school children and other pedestrians safely cross the street. We have five guards - two in Arthur and three in Mount Forest - with three spare guards who fill in when needed. Our crossing guards work to keep our community safe.
In the event a crossing guard is unable to work their shift, the Township will use best efforts to get a backfill. If no one is available to cover the shift, the Crossing Guard Absence Policy (PDF) [PDF/76KB] [PDF/76KB]will be enacted.
Many options are available for Transportation services:
- Ridewell, our county-wide, demand-based, public transit service available to all businesses, residents and visitors. The Government of Ontario is currently funding this five-year pilot project and offers a safe, affordable option for people to move throughout the County.
- GOST (Guelph Owen Sound Transportation) is a public transportation service connecting people from Owen Sound to Guelph and stops in between including Chatsworth, Williamsford, Durham, Mount Forest, Arthur, Fergus and Elora.
The Township is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents, and one of the key areas of concern has been road safety within residential neighbourhoods. In response to concerns about speeding on specific roads and throughout the Township, a Council approved Traffic Calming Pilot Program has been launched as part of our ongoing efforts to augment road safety and enhancing the quality of life for residents. Speed and traffic data will be collected before installation and will be collected again afterward to evaluate the effectiveness of the traffic calming measures in reducing vehicle speeds in these areas.
Based on community feedback, recent traffic studies, staff report, Traffic Calming Pilot Program INF 2026-015, [PDF/908KB] and Council endorsement, the below locations have been selected to participate in this temporary pilot program, which aims to reduce vehicle speeds, discourage cut-through traffic, and create a safer environment for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike.
Centre Line Delineators:
- Domville Street between Conestoga Street and Eliza Street
- Church Street North between Sligo Road E and Wellington Street E
Pilot Start Date: Fall 2025
Duration: Fall 2025 through to Fall 2026Image
Centre Line Delineator Radar Speed Signs:
- Concession Road 11 at north and south limits at or near the existing 60 km/hr sign in Farwell
- Sideroad 3W, east of Wellington Road 6 and west of Sally Street at or near the existing 60 km/hr sign
Pilot Start Date: Fall 2025
Duration: Fall 2025 through to fall of 2026Image
During the pilot period, we will monitor traffic patterns, gather resident feedback in fall 2026, and assess the effectiveness of the measures implemented.
We appreciate your cooperation and support as we work together to augment road safety. This pilot project is a proactive step toward improving road safety and the quality of life for our residents.
Traffic Calming Pilot Program - Resident Notification (Speed Radar Sign)(PDF) [PDF/179KB]
Become a Crossing Guard
A crossing guard is a traffic management personnel who is normally stationed on busy roadways to aid pedestrians. If you would like to become a crossing guard, please send us an email or give us a call at 519-848-3620 ext. 4227.
