CAA launches annual Ontario worst roads campaign
Posted Mar 22, 2022 01:44:00 PM.
As Ontario approaches the start of the peak construction season, the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) has launched its 18th annual worst roads campaign.
Teresa Di Felice, the associate vice-president of government and community relations at CAA South Central Ontario, said the most common complaints the company receives from its members surround poor pavement conditions as well as potholes and road cracks.
“It isn't just about driving, it’s about all the ways we get around. Worst roads [is] a safety issue, it's an infrastructure issue,” she told CityNews ahead of Tuesday's formal launch.
“Sixty-five per cent of respondents to our survey told us that they are slowing down when they see a pothole, 64 per cent are swerving, so this is also a safety matter we need to address.”
After the 2021 worst roads campaign, Victoria Road in Prince Edward County came out top in the provincial vote, while Carling Avenue came in second. Carling Avenue was also named the worst road in Ottawa.
When asked about the effectiveness of the campaigns, Di Felice said past ones have resulted in streets being fixed sooner than scheduled. “We do get decision-makers who are hearing what constituents are telling them about the roads on their list,” she said.
Nominations for the worst roads can be submitted until April 19 and multiple entries are allowed.
The final list is scheduled to be announced in June.