The Independent

Lambton OPP are stepping up patrols on Highway 402 near the Bluewater Bridge.

For months, transports have lined the westbound lanes leading into the US, clogging traffic. Wait times for transports can last hours and sometimes, passenger vehicles are also slowed by the congestion.

Pt. Edward Mayor Bev Hand says part of the problem is increased truck traffic as drivers use the Pt. Edward span instead of the more expensive Windsor border. There has also been construction on a bridge between Modeland and Indian Roads where the highway narrows to a single lane. It’s not clear when that construction will be complete.

Friday, OPP said they’ve increased enforcement in the area to “maintain road safety.

“This traffic enforcement initiative, called Operation Safe Approach, aims to promote safe driving habits. Officers will be focusing on unsafe and illegal driving behaviours by both commercial and passenger vehicles. These actions pose significant risks to public safety,” said Constable Jeannie Robertson in a news release.

Police are reminding motorists to avoid using shoulders or emergency turnarounds, making U-turns, follow all posted signage and to expect delays, allowing extra time on the road.