While the debate over the controversial closure of King High Dr. at Dufferin St. continues to fester, council agreed Monday to look at reconfiguring the intersection at Dufferin and Centre Sts. to help relieve the situation.

The recommendation, brought forward by area councillor Sandra Racco, would see a second southbound left-turn lane added for traffic traveling from Dufferin onto Centre. If this lane is added, one of the two existing northbound left-turn lanes would be eliminated. The intersection is too narrow to accommodate dual turning lanes from both directions.

In an interview last week, Racco said she hoped this move might lessen the traffic burden on Beverley Glen Blvd., appeasing those opposed to the King High closure. She said a quicker left turn at Centre would provide a disincentive to those who use Beverly Glen as a shortcut around the major intersection.

The King High closure is in effect for a one-year trial and will be reviewed after six months.

The intersection of Dufferin and Centre is under the jurisdiction of the transportation ministry, and changes would be completed and paid for by the province.

Vaughan Today
Online: December 7, 2007 [link]