An oversized commercial vehicle recently sped down Alberta Street taking down cable lines along the way.
That’s just one of the reasons why area residents are appealing to city hall to address traffic volumes and speeding on the narrow Sapperton street. On Feb. 2, residents presented council with a petition signed by 47 Alberta Street residents, who are asking that the city immediately design and install traffic calming measures.
With about 59 children living on Alberta Street, Wes Kinna said families need the city to address the “significant” problems with traffic volumes and speeds of vehicles on the street. He said his neighbours’ two sons were allowed to walk to a friend’s house on Simpson Street three years ago, but that’s no longer the case because of safety concerns related to traffic volumes and speeding motorists.
Danielle Connelly said access in and out of the Brewery District development is something that needs to be addressed.
While they’re leaving it to engineers to decide how to best handle the traffic problem, residents want the city to consider right-in, right-out movements from Alberta Street, removal of the light at Alberta and East Columbia streets (near the Brewery District development) and speed bumps. He said residents want the city to address the traffic concerns, and ensure it isn’t just redirected to neighbouring streets.
A light at the foot of Alberta Street makes it easier for motorists to make left turns onto East Columbia Street. Because it’s the only traffic-controlled intersection near the Brewery District, it’s also a convenient place for motorists to access that site.
Coun. Patrick Johnstone said there is “no excuse” for commercial trucks to be traveling on Alberta Street at any time. “That’s not an acceptable situation.”
Jim Lowrie, the city’s director of engineering services, said staff expect to report back to council on the issue in March.
