As Crystal Beach Lakeview continues to welcome more and more young families, the safety of children in the neighbourhood must be kept top of mind as we see increased traffic due to LRT construction, activity and the increase in public servant commuters returning to the office more frequently.
It’s imperative for drivers to be proactive in ensuring road safety. Taking the time to drive at safe speeds, being aware of surroundings, refrain from distractions such as texting or talking on the phone, and advocating for improved road design are all important steps towards preventing accidents and protecting the well-being of our children. It’s not just about following traffic laws; it’s about fostering a sense of collective responsibility for the safety of everyone in the community.
In our neighbourhood there are a few areas where road design may inadvertently encourage speeding. Straight roads such as Corkstown make it easy to exceed the 40 km/h speed limit without noticing, while Carling as the old main highway was designed for speeds far in excess of its 60 km/h limit.
While road design can play a pivotal role in facilitating speeding, implementing cost-effective traffic calming measures can significantly enhance road safety and create more pedestrian-friendly environments. Here are some inexpensive strategies that can help address speeding concerns and promote safer neighborhoods.
1. Painted Crosswalks and Intersection Markings:
Painting crosswalks and clearly marking intersections can improve visibility for both drivers and pedestrians. This simple yet effective measure can encourage drivers to slow down and be more mindful of pedestrian right of way.
2. Chicanes and Curbside Extensions:
Introducing chicanes, which are alterations in the road that create a zigzag pattern, and curbside extensions can help narrow the roadway and reduce vehicle speeds. These measures are relatively inexpensive and can have a substantial impact on slowing down traffic.
3. Speed Humps:
Speed humps are an affordable and efficient way to reduce speeding in residential areas. They are designed to slow down vehicles without causing discomfort to responsible drivers and have been proven to be effective in many communities.
4. Flexible Bollards and Planters:
Using flexible bollards and planters strategically placed along roadways can create visual and physical barriers, encouraging drivers to decrease their speed. These measures also contribute to creating safer environments for pedestrians.
5. Curb Extensions and Raised Intersections:
By extending curbs and incorporating raised intersections, communities can effectively reduce vehicle speeds in pedestrian-heavy areas. These measures enhance pedestrian visibility and prioritize their safety.
6. Enhanced Signage and Road Markings:
Improving signage and road markings can be a cost-effective way to communicate speed limits, pedestrian crossings, and other vital information to drivers.
By implementing inexpensive traffic calming measures such as these, communities like ours can address speeding concerns and create safer, more livable neighborhoods for residents and pedestrians alike. So let us know your thoughts! The Transportation and Infrastructure committee of the Lakeview/Crystal Beach community association is here to advocate for safe infrastructure for our neighbourhood and a top priority is the safety of our streets for residents of all ages and modes of transport. Through collaborative efforts and a focus on practical and affordable measures, Lakeview/Crystal Beach can create safer roadways that benefit everyone.
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