There are a number of transportation-related updates and improvements occurring in Kirkendall now and in coming months - the following provides an update on the initiatives.
Chedoke Radial Trail Bridge
The Chedoke Rail Trail has reopened with the completion of the new bridge at Chedoke Falls. The new bridge is significantly larger than the previous bridge. It has a larger overall width and height in order to deal with structural issues related to the length of the span required. The new longer structure deals with the problem of an eroding escarpment water course as well as the local slope instability at a significantly lower cost and less impact to the trail and the users than traditional slope stabilization and creek realignment treatments.
Trail users should note that the trail does not receive winter maintenance so they should use it at their own risk.
Aberdeen/Kent Pedestrian Light
Staff advise that the new pedestrian light at Aberdeen and Kent (approved by Council in June 2011) will be installed in summer 2012.
Stanley Avenue Speed Humps between Queen and Locke
Questionnaires have been delivered to the residents of Stanley Avenue to determine their support for two speed humps between Queen Street and Locke Street. This is being done to discourage drivers coming down the Queen Street Hill to cut through the neighbourhood.
No Left Turn on Stanley from Queen Street South
Staff will be installing a “No Left Turn” prohibition from Queen Street to Stanley Avenue during the morning rush hour in the spring. This will be a pilot project.
Transportation Demand Management
Staff are planning to start a social marketing pilot project for Kirkendall and Mountain residents in the spring to work on encouraging motorists to consider alternative forms of transportation. Transportation Demand Management (TDM) refers to a suite of projects and programs designed to encourage reduced use of private automobiles in favour of car-pooling, working at home options, and moving to using transit, walking and cycling. The project here is being done to try to reduce the amount of traffic using the Queen Street Hill, in part to mitigate any back-up on the Hill that may occur as a result of the left-hand turn prohibition at Stanley.
Pedestrian Friendly Changes to Fortinos Parking Lot on Dundurn
Brian and City Staff have been meeting with Fortinos/Loblaws to discuss making it easier for pedestrians and cyclists to access the Fortinos store on Dundurn. They have committed to making some changes and have provided some drawings to the city. The proposal is currently being discussed at the Loblaws Board re funding needs. Thank you to the Kirkendall Traffic Committee and city staff for initiating these changes.
New HSR Bus on Dundurn Street
We are planning to hold a public meeting to discuss the proposed new Dundurn bus route and related options, tentatively at the end of February. The new service is scheduled to go into operation in September 2012. The additional transit funding was the result of several years work by Brian to free up Provincial Gas Tax funding for new bus service. Note that this funding will also improve B-Line service along Main and King Streets by adding more buses.
Strathcona Transportation Management Plan
Staff are currently working on a Transportation Management Plan for the Strathcona neighbourhood. Improving the Main and King/Dundurn intersections are part of the study, as are pedestrian improvements on Main Street, and other important linkages between the two neighbourhoods. A public meeting is being planned (date to be determined). We’ll let you know once it is scheduled.
