Work stretches across Kingston Road corridor
Construction on the Durham-Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit (DSBRT) project is bringing major traffic adjustments to Ajax this summer and into next spring, the region says. Road crews are reconfiguring lanes and changing traffic-signal timing at several busy intersections to accommodate new bus infrastructure and improve traffic flow.
The most significant changes are centred on Kingston Road and Salem Road and Kingston Road and Harwood Avenue. Work extends from about 300 metres west of Harwood Avenue to Galea Drive, and the region warns drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to pay close attention to the new layouts and phasing while crews remain on site.
What drivers and residents will see
- Traffic signals will have updated timing — drivers are asked to watch for new signal patterns.
- Offset left-turn lanes and fully protected left-turn signals have been installed at key junctions.
- Lane configurations through portions of the corridor have been adjusted; temporary lane markings and signage are in place.
- Construction is ongoing while bus stops, sidewalks and local businesses remain open to the public.
“Significant changes are coming” to the intersections, the region said in a release, urging motorists to slow down and to be mindful of pedestrians, cyclists and work crews. The release also notes that the adjustments will remain in effect through spring of next year.
Drivers are reminded to slow down and watch out for pedestrians, cyclists and work crews.
Local impact and short-term disruptions
For Ajax residents who travel Kingston Road daily — for work, school or business deliveries — the reconfigurations will mean altered turning patterns and a period of adjustment to new signal timing. While the region emphasises that bus stops, sidewalks and businesses along the corridor will remain open, drivers should expect:
- shorter or redirected turn lanes at major intersections,
- potential delays during peak hours as traffic adapts to new phasing, and
- ongoing presence of construction personnel and equipment near travel lanes.
Those changes are part of the broader DSBRT project aimed at providing faster, more reliable bus service between Durham and Scarborough. The work in Ajax is one of multiple sections where new bus stations and corridor upgrades are being installed; the region warned other intersections along the route will also be affected as construction progresses.
Timeline and location summary
| Work area | Changes | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Kingston Rd at Salem Rd | Signal timing, offset left-turn lanes, lane reconfiguration | Through spring of next year |
| Kingston Rd at Harwood Ave (and corridor west to Galea Dr) | Signal timing, protected left-turn signals, lane changes | Through spring of next year |
The region asks residents to slow down through construction zones and to watch for updated signage and temporary lane markings. Officials also note that while traffic patterns are altered, the aim is to maintain access to local commercial frontages and pedestrian routes during construction.
For people who rely on scheduled transit, the DSBRT is intended to improve trip times and service reliability once complete. In the short term, Ajax drivers and businesses should prepare for shifting traffic patterns and expect that some intersections along the corridor will see similar adjustments as new stations are installed.
Residents seeking more detailed information about detours, station locations and project timelines are advised to consult regional communications for updates and to follow posted construction signage in the area.
