Road Safety and Traffic Calming Measures

Protecting vulnerable road users and strengthening neighbourhood safety

Road safety is a strategic priority for the Town of Hampstead. In a predominantly residential environment shared by pedestrians, cyclists, motorists and personal motorized device users, protecting vulnerable road users guides municipal planning and intervention decisions.

The Town’s approach is based on three complementary pillars: public awareness, enforcement of the Highway Safety Code and safe infrastructure design.

Implementation of Traffic Calming Measures

The Town benefits of the government of Quebec financial support under the Road Safety Fund Assistance Program (PAFFSR). The Town’s project enables the implementation of additional traffic calming measures aimed at reducing operating speeds and improving safety at intersections and near sensitive areas.
Planned interventions include:

Installation of MTMD-compliant speed bumps
Installation of a permanent P Curb sidewalk extension in a high-risk area
Improving automatic pedestrian signals
Adding reinforced road markings with a seasonal pilot project involving fake curb extensions in the form of bollards

These measures form part of a structured strategy designed to reduce collision risks and enhance overall quality of life.

Road Safety

Awareness and Community Engagement

The Town of Hampstead firmly believes that awareness is key to encouraging responsible behavior on the road.

Awareness Campaigns: Prevention messages are shared throughout the year on our digital platforms and in public spaces.
Community Initiatives: Residents are encouraged to play an active role by reporting traffic issues and supporting awareness efforts.
Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Targeted interventions are carried out to ensure compliance with road rules and enhance safety for all.

Take it slow, it's the way to go! A Bold Campaign!

Take it slow, it’s the way to go! is Hampstead’s road safety initiative designed to protect everyone. This campaign targets residents of all ages, as well as all road users passing through our municipality. We are stepping up our efforts to raise awareness about following road safety regulations, particularly respecting speed limits and stop signs.

Visit our YouTube page to discover the visual identity of our campaign!

The Town of Hampstead is committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens on the road. Whether you are a driver, cyclist, or pedestrian, everyone has a role to play in making our streets safer and more user-friendly.

Pedestrian Crossings and Urban Pathways

The Town ensures that pedestrian crossings are highly visible and safe. Road markings are regularly maintained to provide better protection for pedestrians. Urban pathways also promote active mobility in a pleasant and secure environment.

Cyclists, Electric Scooter and personal motorized transportation device (PMTDs) Users

Cyclists and electric scooter users are reminded to follow all traffic signs and ride with caution. With more and more teens riding e-scooters in our municipality, it’s important to be aware of the rules set out in the Highway Safety Code.

Since July 20, 2023, a three-year pilot project has been in effect to regulate the use of personal motorized transportation devices (PMTDs), including electric scooters, self-balancing devices, and seated or three-wheeled models. These devices:

Must be powered solely by an electric motor
Have at least one wheel
Cannot have a closed cabin, whether soft or rigid, transparent or opaque

✅ Usage Conditions

Permitted only on roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or less
Maximum device speed: 25 km/h
Minimum age: 14 years old
Wearing a helmet is mandatory
Users must follow the same rules as cyclists, including:
- No sidewalk riding
- Yielding to pedestrians

🔧 Required Equipment

Maximum weight: 36 kg (including battery)
Wheels of at least 190 mm in diameter
Both mechanical and electric brakes on each wheel
Reflectors: white in the front, red in the rear and on the sides
Lights for night use: white headlight (front) and red rear light

🚫 Prohibited

Using headphones or a cellphone while riding
Carrying passengers or trailers
Riding on roads with speed limits over 50 km/h

💸 Fine

$200 fine for any violation of the pilot project (section 633.1 of the Highway Safety Code)

For full details on required equipment and regulations, visit the SAAQ website.

School Zone and Day Camp Drop-Off Area

School zones and the day camp drop-off area require heightened vigilance. The Town reminds residents that:

Double parking is prohibited to ensure smooth traffic flow.
Speed limits must be strictly observed near schools and the day camp.
Drivers must yield to pedestrians and children on the move.

Speed Limits: A Shared Responsibility

Speed limits are essential for ensuring everyone’s safety, especially near parks and school zones. The Town reminds drivers of the importance of slowing down and adjusting their driving to the urban environment to protect pedestrians and cyclists.

Mobile radar speed signs are installed at key locations to raise awareness of real-time speeds and encourage safer driving behaviour.

Respecting Stop Signs

Stop signs are in place to ensure everyone’s safety. Drivers must come to a complete stop at every stop sign and yield to pedestrians and other vehicles when necessary. The Town reminds motorists that failing to comply with this rule will automatically result in a traffic violation.

Traffic Calming Measures

Hampstead implements various measures to slow traffic and reduce the risk of accidents:

Speed reduction: Certain residential areas have a 30 km/h limit to promote a safer living environment.
Speed humps and curb extensions: These features naturally slow down vehicles and improve pedestrian visibility.
New signage: The addition of clear road signs and pavement markings enhances driver awareness.

A Safer Urban Environment for All

Hampstead is committed to creating a living environment where everyone can move safely. By driving responsibly and supporting awareness efforts, we can make our town a calmer and more harmonious place.