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More traffic controls added in Watford during construction

August 7, 2026

Heather Wright/The Independent

Warwick Township council is taking more action to make sure detoured traffic isn’t causing problems.

The intersection of Confederation Line and Nauvoo Road is being reconstructed. The work began five weeks ago and is expected to last until at least mid-August.

As soon as the County of Lambton put up the detour signs, traffic began winding its way down the side streets of Watford to get around the closure.

The township posted signage banning large trucks from side streets and called the Lambton OPP in to enforce the rules. About a dozen trucks were stopped at that time.

But, Councillor Jerry Westgate noted the traffic is still causing problems, particularly on King and Warwick Street. He wanted a three-way stop sign to slow traffic.

Council agreed and staff suggested they would place the signs at the corner as quickly as possible.

Councillor Joe Manning pointed out the problem was just as bad on Gold Street near the elementary school. He asked for a three-way stop at Gold and Centennial Street. Staff said a temporary sign could be installed during the construction, however since buses load and unload in the area, it would not be possible once the school year started.

Council agreed with Manning’s suggestion of a temporary stop sign during construction.

Manning suggested a community safety zone, where fines for traffic offences are doubled, could be considered for the rest of the year.

Staff will develop a bylaw for the township council to consider during its next meeting in August.

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