Do not be surprised to see more OPP cruisers along Highway 402 in Sarnia amid ongoing traffic congestion along the westbound lanes leading to the Blue Water Bridge.
Lambton OPP announced an enforcement initiative called "Operation Safe Approach" on August 15, in response to lengthy delays caused by commercial and vehicular traffic and construction.
OPP said the goal is to promote safe driving habits.
As part of the initiative, officers will focus on unsafe and illegal driving behaviours. "I urge all members of the motoring public to remain alert to potential traffic delays and stopped traffic along our local roadways, in particular Highway 402 approaching the Blue Water Bridge," said Interim Detachment Commander Insp. Ross Stuart in a statement. "Always remember to monitor your speed, leave plenty of space between vehicles, and never reverse along a highway to avoid a traffic delay. Road safety is everyone's responsibility and ultimately the OPP wants to ensure that everyone gets home safe to their family."
Motorists are also reminded to avoid making illegal maneuvers -- like U-turns -- on the highway, to follow posted signs, to allow for extra travel time, to check bridge wait times, and to check traffic updates from the Ministry of Transportation.
Community Engagement Officer Cst. Jeanine Robertson said the traffic initiative will remain ongoing for the foreseeable future.
Traffic congestion on Hwy. 402 has been a recurring issue this summer.
At times, commercial vehicles have been lined up on the highway, waiting over two hours to cross the Blue Water Bridge into the U.S.
Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley penned a letter to the province in July, citing multiple safety concerns, including commercial trucks avoiding highway traffic by using city streets.
In June, the Sarnia Police Service issued about 150 tickets to commercial truck drivers for not adhering to designated truck routes.
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