The Junction Triangle is known for its eclectic shops and eateries, the 2-km Railpath, and plenty of smiling faces to go around. But it’s also begrudgingly known for one of the most confusing intersections in the entire city.
Welcome to Symington Ave, Bloor St W, and Sterling Rd. If you don’t live in this neighbourhood, you might not know how to drive through this intersection. It’s certainly caused a lot of confusion for drivers and been the site of some gridlock as a result.
The intersection is so unique and well-known by locals that some even done t-shirts with a graphic of the seemingly labyrinth-like intersection.
This intersection has three sets of traffic lights. While not confusing to pedestrians, there always seems to be more than one driver caught in the middle of it. So, what’s the proper way to go through?
If you’re going north on Sterling, you can only proceed through this intersection at a green light. You can’t make a right on a red.
If you need to go north on Symington, or east along Bloor, proceed through the intersection on a green light and don’t stop in the middle of the road.
And don’t get confused by the red lights along Bloor St – they’re meant for the eastbound and westbound drivers.
It’s understandable why drivers get confused at this intersection, as it’s large and not very straightforward. It’s easy to make these mistakes if you’re not from the Junction Triangle or are fairly new to it.
Hopefully, this sheds some light for any new resident and for drivers who go through this part of the neighbourhood.
Luckily, the neighbourhood is extremely pedestrian-friendly. Everything you need is within walking distance, so there’s little need for a vehicle. But if you happen to be commuting in, out, or within the Junction Triangle, be sure to heed these tips to help you navigate through this interesting intersection carefully and successfully.