Opposition growing against Oxford Road 2 reconstruction in Thamesford

The intersection of Highway 2 and Road 119 is part of the planned reconstruction project for the Thamesford corridor. Some residents want the county to slow down and talk about the concerns of many town residents. (Oxford County photo)

Lee Griffi, Editor

Thamesford residents and businesses are organizing a campaign to force Oxford County to take another look at the proposed construction project in the town.

The county is planning improvements to the Thamesford downtown corridor (Oxford Road 2/ Dundas Street) in Zorra Township to respond to increased traffic volumes from ongoing and future development in the area.

Resident Noah Witte said the most significant concern is the removal of on-street parking and the push towards increased traffic flow rather than traffic mitigation.

“The consensus seems to be that many residents feel that the commercial truck traffic is getting louder over time and it is becoming harder and harder to enjoy our town. The concern is that the proposed plan doesn't address the long-term needs of Thamesford and is appearing to move forward despite significantly unanswered questions from the community.”

He added many residents are worried about pedestrian safety, access for local businesses, the impact on the downtown, future growth, and whether the proposed design simply accommodates more traffic rather than providing a long-term solution for the increased noise and traffic.

“There is also concern that alternatives, including a truck bypass or other traffic management options, have not been thoroughly explored. Perhaps the greatest frustration is that many residents feel their questions have not been answered in a clear or meaningful way throughout the consultation process.”

Witte said he started a petition after speaking with many residents who shared similar concerns.

“The response has been overwhelmingly positive. We reached more than 50 signatures very quickly, and support continues to grow. More importantly, the conversations we've had while collecting signatures show that many residents feel they haven't been adequately represented throughout this process and want Council to pause and reconsider before moving forward.”

Witte explained he has attended a public meeting, submitted questions, spoken with county staff and elected officials, and communicated directly with members of council.

“While I appreciate that opportunities for engagement have been provided, responses to specific questions have been broad and haven't directly addressed the concerns being raised. This has left many residents feeling that their questions are not being addressed and voices are not being heard.”

Witte and his supporters said their immediate goal is to present the petition to Oxford County Council and respectfully ask the project to be paused until residents have received meaningful answers to their questions.

“We also want to continue encouraging residents to engage with their elected representatives and participate in the process. This isn't about stopping progress. It's about ensuring the final decisions are informed by genuine community input and reflect the long-term needs of Thamesford.”

He added the issue has brought together people from across our community and while everyone may not agree on every detail, there is a shared desire to ensure Thamesford's future is shaped thoughtfully and transparently.

“We're not asking council to abandon the project. We're asking them to slow down, answer the community's questions, and work with residents to find the best long-term solution. We all want the same outcome: a safer, stronger, and more vibrant Thamesford for future generations.”

The county said the project improvements are based on recommendations from a comprehensive corridor study. Proposed changes include the installation of a two-way left-turn lane along Dundas Street, removal of on-street parking and safety improvements for all road users.

It also includes intersection and crossing improvements, including the installation of new traffic signals at George Street, and the relocation of the George Street pedestrian crossover to Stanley Street. Pedestrian and safety improvements include upgrades at key locations and streetlighting improvements.

“The support from our community has been incredible, and every signature helps show that Thamesford residents want action and long-term solutions,” said Witte in a social media post.

He is encouraging supporters to contact Oxford County and Zorra Township councillors.

“Share your concerns and ask them to support meaningful, long-term improvements for our community. Personal stories make a difference. If you haven't signed the petition yet, there's still time. Every signature strengthens our voice. Thank you for standing together to help build a safer, stronger future for Thamesford,” he added.