County of Brant - Simply Grand - Public Works

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MTO Emergency Detour Route
(E.D.R.)

"Road Closure Action Plan"

The County of Brant Road Closure Action Plan has been developed to assist in the identification and management of alternate traffic routes due to traffic incidents along Highway 403, County of Brant roads and adjacent municipalities' roads.

In the past there have been a number of traffic incidents along Highway 403 that have lasted extensive periods of time causing major delay for the traveling public. The focal point of the County of Brant Road Closure Action Plan is for the major closure of Highway 403 at a number of Interchanges. EDR graphic

The County of Brant Public Works Department posted Emergency Detour Route (EDR) signage along six pre-determined routes throughout the County. These new permanent yellow and black signs are clearly visible at the start and along the alternative routes. The detour routes will be used to divert traffic if a major accident, hazardous material spill or related incident occurs on Highways 403 that results in a highway closure.

The signs shown here, and beside the FAQ's are located on the highway at the start of the Emergency Detour Route (EDR) and are located along the route that should be followed.

The decision to close a provincial highway and to initiate the EDR shall be at the sole discretion of the Ontario Provincial Police (O.P.P.). If necessary, the decision to activate the Road Closure Action Plan may involve consultations with other emergency service agencies responding to the highway incident. When activating the EDR, O.P.P. shall ensure that the appropriate agencies have been notified prior to opening and directing traffic off the highway and onto the detour routes.

Initiation of the Road Closure Action Plan is recommended when an incident results in the closure of traffic lanes (all or partial) in either one or both directions, and if the duration of the closure is anticipated to extend over one hour.

Figure 1 - Emergency Detour Route (EDR)
This sign will be visible near the start of the closure

Figure 2 - Emergency Detour Route (EDR) Markers.
Used to guide motorists along the designated route.
Follow these back to the highway

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why do we need Emergency Detour Routes (EDRs)?

To provide drivers with a pre-determined route when a provincial highway is closed.

2. When are emergency highway closures necessary?

These unscheduled closures are required when a highway is physically impassable or when emergency work cannot be performed in traffic.

3. How long will the Emergency Detour Route (EDR) be activated?

The duration of a highway closure will vary depending on the extent and nature of the incident. Most incidents normally require approximately two to three hours to clear.

4. Who decides when the highway should be closed or opened?

The police have the authority to close highways. An officer at the incident will determine when to reopen the highway and deactivate the Emergency Detour Route (EDR).

5. How will I know what route to follow?

Signs, as shown in Figure 1, will be located on the highway at the start of the Emergency Detour Route (EDR). Signs, as shown in Figure 2, will be placed along the route that should be followed.

6. I have a large truck carrying an oversized or overweight load. Can I use the Emergency Detour Route (EDR)?

No. Oversized or overweight loads travel under permit-defined routes and are not permitted on any other route. The police will direct you to park in a safe location on the highway until it reopens.

7. I live in an area that the Emergency Detour Route (EDR) goes through. How will I be affected?

While the Emergency Detour Route (EDR) is activated there will be an increase in traffic. This might also include more trucks. Local police or municipal staff might be present to direct traffic at key intersections and monitor the use of the Emergency Detour Route (EDR).

8. How are the Emergency Detour Routes (EDRs) selected?

Emergency Detour Routes (EDRs) are developed by the municipality with the MTO and the police. They are based on several factors including travel time and a route's ability to efficiently accommodate increased traffic volumes.

Adopted from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation

Maps of Interchanges