After over a year of work, the Municipality of Leamington has begun measures to make its popular waterfront and marina a more welcoming area.
Leamington's Waterfront Committee has taken steps to address complaints from residents, visitors, and business owners about disruptive behaviour in the neighbourhood. Some concerns included loitering, loud engine revving, and drag racing.
The committee was formed in May 2024 by residents, municipal representatives, and Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).
"Leamington’s waterfront is a treasured community space," said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. "Through the collaborative work of our Waterfront Committee and the support of our partners at the OPP, we’re taking proactive steps to protect this area and promote respectful use of our public amenities."
The waterfront is now classified as a community safety zone, resulting in increased traffic fines for violations.
The marina's parking lot has been reconfigured to improve traffic flow and accessibility. The entrance has been relocated, and additional parking added.
The Municipality is also winding up the Robson Road reconstruction, which includes new traffic calming measures to discourage speeding.
The zone also has improved lighting, and the installation of surveillance cameras is in the works.
Signage will also be placed to tell visitors not to loiter, make vehicle noise, or park in the area between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. The OPP will increase patrols in the community zone to ensure compliance.
