By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
Chatham‑Kent Council has approved a series of temporary parking and traffic adjustments along King Street in downtown Chatham to support local businesses and maintain safe traffic flow during ongoing construction in the area.
The changes follow a motion from Mayor Darrin Canniff, who asked Council to authorize municipal staff to address parking pressures near King Street and Fifth Street. Construction at 100 and 130 King Street has reduced on‑street parking and required fencing along the sidewalk, prompting the need for short‑term modifications.
Over the next two days, the Municipality will convert part of the westbound right‑turn lane on King Street at Fifth Street into two new one‑hour parking spaces. The existing 15‑minute parking spot will be shifted closer to the intersection, at the west end of the parking area.
All remaining on‑street public parking spaces between Fifth Street and William Street will move from two‑hour limits to one‑hour limits to encourage turnover and improve customer access to nearby businesses.
A new “No Right Turn on Red” restriction will also be introduced for westbound traffic turning from King Street onto Fifth Street. The rule applies only during a red light and is intended to improve safety while construction fencing remains in place at the corner. Drivers may still turn right on a green signal. New signage will be installed to clearly indicate the change.
“These adjustments are intended to help offset the loss of parking caused by the ongoing improvements to downtown while also ensuring safe and effective traffic movement in a busy downtown area,” Mayor Canniff said.
“Supporting our downtown businesses and keeping people moving safely remains a priority as our work to revitalize downtown Chatham continues.”
The temporary measures will remain in place for the duration of construction. Residents and visitors are encouraged to watch for new signage and pavement markings as the updates roll out.