Signs and Signals

The District of Muskoka manages traffic lights and signals at intersections throughout Muskoka.

Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS)

Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS) provide distinct audible cues to assist visually impaired pedestrians in identifying safe crossing directions. A "cuckoo" sound indicates north-south crossings, while a "chirp" sound is used for east-west crossings.

Important Note: At most intersections, it is not necessary to push the APS button to activate the walk symbol. However, the button must be pressed to enable the audible features.

Audible Push Buttons

Audible push buttons are enhanced Accessible Pedestrian Signals designed to assist individuals with visual impairments. These buttons enhance inclusivity and safety, making pedestrian crossings accessible to everyone.

Key Features

Audible push buttons provide two main types of feedback:

Traditional Audible Feedback: When the button is pushed, it activates the traditional “cuckoo” or “chirp” sound, signaling the pedestrian crossing phase.

Extended Feedback with Vibration and Voice Guidance:

Pressing and holding the button for three seconds activates a vibration.
This is followed by signals (cuckoo or chirp) to indicate it is safe to cross.
A voice command also announces the remaining walk time during the countdown.

Location-Specific Features

Some locations have unique voice commands to reflect local traffic conditions:

Main Street, Huntsville, Pedestrian Crossing:

Pushing the button activates the “cuckoo” or “chirp” sound.

Holding the button for three seconds activates a vibration and signals (cuckoo or chirp). A voice command announces: “Caution, vehicles may not stop.”

Winewood Avenue East, Gravenhurst, Pedestrian Crossing:

Pushing the button activates the “cuckoo” or “chirp” sound.

Holding the button for three seconds activates a vibration and signals (cuckoo or chirp). A voice command announces: “Warning, lights are flashing.”

These features ensure that pedestrian crossings are not only accessible but also tailored to the safety needs of each specific location.

Additional Features of Audible Push Buttons

Audible push buttons include several additional features designed to assist individuals with visual impairments:

Locator Sound: A consistent sound helps visually impaired users locate the push buttons.

Tactile Feedback: When pressed, the button provides a distinct physical movement or “click,” reassuring users that the button has been successfully activated.

Braille and Raised Arrows: These features indicate the direction of travel to guide users.

Adjustable Volume: The sound level automatically adapts to ambient noise, increasing in louder environments, such as areas with heavy traffic, to ensure the signal remains audible.

Vibration Cues: These provide accessibility for individuals who are deaf-blind, enhancing inclusivity.

Location-Specific Feature Exceptions

In Huntsville, the intersections of Centre and Main Street, Brunel and Main Street, and West and Main Street have the following location specific features:

A touchless “wave activation” option. Users can activate the button by waving their hand in front of it, while still having the option to press the button if preferred.

Important Note: At most intersections, the APS buttons do not need to be pushed to activate the walk symbol. However, they must be activated (by pressing or waving, where applicable) to enable audible features.

Analysis Process

At the District of Muskoka, we are dedicated to ensuring the safe and efficient movement of all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. To identify the most suitable locations for pedestrian crossovers (PXOs), we adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Ontario Traffic Manual (OTM), specifically Book 15: Pedestrian Crossing Treatments.

Key Steps in the Assessment Process

Traffic and Pedestrian Activity Analysis

Traffic counts are conducted to measure the volume of vehicles and pedestrians at a location.
This data helps assess the demand for a crossing and determine whether a PXO is justified.

Road Characteristics Evaluation

Factors such as road width, speed limits, sightlines, and nearby amenities (e.g., schools, parks) are examined to determine the suitability of a PXO.

Application of the OTM Decision Support Tool

This tool evaluates several critical factors to determine the most appropriate PXO design:
- Vehicle Speed: Higher speeds may require enhanced features such as flashing lights or additional signage for safety.
- Vehicle and Pedestrian Volumes: Locations with higher activity may require more visible or advanced crossing treatments.
- Road Type and Features: Characteristics such as the number of lanes, presence of medians, and road classification (e.g., residential or arterial) influence the recommended crossing design.
The OTM tool provides a systematic approach to evaluating these factors, ensuring the safest and most effective crossing treatment. PXO levels range from simple treatments (e.g., pavement markings and signage) to advanced designs featuring overhead lights and audible signals.

Ensuring Safety and Efficiency

By integrating traffic data, road assessments, and the OTM guidelines, we aim to balance safety and efficiency for all road users. PXOs are strategically installed where they will provide the greatest benefit, enhancing accessibility and safety for pedestrians while maintaining smooth traffic flow.

Existing and Planned Pedestrian Crossings

Bracebridge

Existing

Wellington St. at Monck School (IPS)
Muskoka Rd. 4 N and McCrank Dr./Quinn Forest Dr. (IPS)
Muskoka Rd. 37 and Mary St. (IPS)

Planned

Santas Village Rd. (PXO - 2025)

Gravenhurst

Existing

Bethune Dr. S at Veterans Way (IPS)

Muskoka Rd. N at Brown St. (IPS)

Bay St. at Boston Pizza (IPS)

Winewood Ave. E (PXO)

Planned

Muskoka Rd. 18 and Sharpe St. (PXO)

Under Construction

Muskoka Beach Rd. at Thain St. W (PXO - 2025) - completion planned for early August 2025.

Huntsville

Existing

Young St. (IPS)

Main St. (PXO)

Spruce Glen Rd. (PXO)

Muskoka Rd. 2 at Riverside School (IPS)

Planned

Muskoka Rd. 2 at Gouldie St. (PXO - 2025)
Muskoka Rd. 2 at Cora St. (PXO)

Muskoka Lakes

Existing

N/A

Planned

Maple St. at Lock St. E (2025)