Lincoln, ON – (April 2, 2026) – The Town of Lincoln, in partnership with Niagara Region, the Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS), the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Ministry of Transportation (MTO), and the Halton Regional Police Service, has kicked off its first coordinated commercial vehicle enforcement initiative of 2026.
This one-day roadside operation focused on commercial trucks and trailers using local roads to bypass the Vineland MTO Inspection Station along the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW). Officers conducted comprehensive inspections to ensure compliance with provincial safety standards and to support safe travel conditions across Lincoln’s road network.
Results from the recent enforcement initiative include:
- 48 vehicles inspected
- 26 (54%) vehicles placed out of service
- 38 charges issued
- 4 license plates removed
In addition to enforcement activities, the Town continues to work closely with Niagara Region through the Truck Bypass Camera Monitoring Pilot Program, launched in 2023. The program uses advanced technology to identify commercial vehicles bypassing designated inspection routes and supports Niagara’s Vision Zero goal of safer roads for all.
Insights gathered through these initiatives help strengthen enforcement strategies, inform infrastructure planning, and better understand truck traffic patterns throughout the community. The Town remains committed to working collaboratively with its partners to enhance road safety and protect local infrastructure.
For more information on Lincoln’s truck traffic initiatives, visit SpeakUpLincoln.ca. To learn more about road safety measures, including community safety zones, pedestrian crossovers, and speed management tools, visit Lincoln.ca.
Background
Truck Traffic in Lincoln and History of Safety Blitzes
In April 2019, Lincoln Council approved a resolution regarding truck safety in Lincoln, which addressed community concerns related to truck traffic and identified several action items to address the concerns. In the short term, the Beamsville Alternate Truck Route Initiative is planned to redirect truck traffic from the downtown area of Beamsville and along Bartlett Road and Durham Road.
In the longer term, the Niagara Escarpment Crossing Project will be a new north-south truck route strategically located between the QEW and Regional Road 20. This route supports the need identified in the Niagara Region Transportation Master Plan for a new north-south escarpment crossing linking the QEW with Highway 20. It will offset the implications of high commercial vehicle traffic travelling through urban and residential areas within the west Niagara communities of Lincoln and Grimsby.
The Town’s Transportation Master Plan developed comprehensive strategies for the movement of goods which requires ongoing partnership with the Niagara Region and other key agencies such as the Minister of Transportation and Niagara Regional Police.
Niagara Region & Town of Lincoln – Road and Traffic Safety Collaboration
The Town of Lincoln and Niagara Region have a strong history of collaboration on road safety, traffic management, and community well-being. Through coordinated efforts, both have worked to reduce speeding, improve pedestrian safety, and manage growing traffic volumes in key areas of Lincoln. This partnership aligns with the Region’s Vision Zero Road Safety Initiative, which aims to eliminate serious injuries and fatalities on roads across Niagara.
The Region has supported local safety enhancements such as community safety zones, digital speed feedback signs, and pedestrian crossovers, helping to create safer streets for residents of all ages. Joint planning and investment in regional road improvements also ensure that Lincoln’s transportation network meets the needs of a growing population while supporting economic development and public safety.
Quotes
“This first enforcement initiative of the year sets the tone for our continued commitment to road safety in Lincoln,” said Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton. “By working closely with our partners, we’re reinforcing that our local roads are not intended for bypass traffic and ensuring our community remains safe for residents and visitors alike.”
“Strong partnerships are key to improving road safety across Niagara,” said Niagara Region Councillor, Robert Foster. “By combining enforcement with technology and data, we’re taking a coordinated approach to managing truck traffic and supporting safer communities throughout the region.”
“These joint initiatives allow us to take a proactive and informed approach to traffic management,” said Michael Kirkopoulos, CAO of the Town of Lincoln. “The data we gather helps guide enforcement, protect infrastructure, and support the safe and efficient movement of goods through our municipality.”
“We’re continuing to send a clear message that local roads are for our community and not as shortcuts for heavy truck traffic,” said Ward 3 Councillor and Chair of the Community Services and Infrastructure Committee, Mike Mikolic. “Through consistent enforcement and innovation, we’re protecting our roads and maintaining a high quality of life in Lincoln.”
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For media inquiries, please contact:
Liliana Busnello
Manager of Corporate Communications
Town of Lincoln
905-563-2799 ext. 230