In the heart of Lethbridge, a local resident's plea for action at a dangerous intersection has sparked a conversation about road safety and the importance of community advocacy. This story, which initially appeared in the Lethbridge Herald, delves into the complex dynamics of urban planning, traffic management, and the impact of historical design choices on modern-day safety concerns.
The Intersection of Concern
Virgil Grandfield, a resident living just blocks away from the intersection of 13th Street S. and Ninth Avenue, has become an unlikely advocate for change. In the span of two months, both a pedestrian and a cyclist were struck by vehicles at this intersection, prompting Grandfield to take action. He, along with other concerned stakeholders, has been calling for changes to the traffic regulations on 13th Street since 2022, advocating for a reduction in the speed limit, the addition of traffic radar, and a redesign of the street.
A Historical Design Flaw
What makes this intersection particularly fascinating is the historical context behind its design. Originally, 13th Street was designed to accommodate a horse and buggy, with a wide layout to allow for turning. Over time, this street evolved into a four-lane road, but the design remained unchanged, creating a potential hazard for modern-day traffic.
Grandfield argues that the city's transportation leadership is relying on outdated methods and formulas, treating 13th Street as an "artery" of the city despite its historical design. This classification exempts the intersection from being included in the school zone, even though it is located just 450 meters from a school.
The Challenge of Arterial Roads
Ahmed Ali, the transportation engineering manager, defends the city's position, stating that reducing the speed limit on 13th Street is impractical due to its role as one of only three roads connecting the north and south ends of Lethbridge. The primary purpose of an arterial street, according to Ali, is to facilitate efficient movement of people from one point to another, making it a critical main road.
However, the city's own traffic report from November 2022 paints a concerning picture. Nearly 73% of vehicles traveling on 13th Street were above the speed limit, with the highest reported speed reaching a staggering 110 km/h. Many of these speeders were active during peak hours, between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m., highlighting the potential danger for pedestrians and cyclists during busy times.
Enforcement and Safety Measures
The Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) recognizes the intersection as one of the higher collision areas within the city and has been conducting weekly traffic enforcement projects. Sgt. Tony Ramotowski acknowledges the challenges of enforcing speed limits at this particular intersection due to its size and volume of traffic. He also attributes the increase in speeding to the elimination of photo radar within the province.
Despite these challenges, the city and LPS are working together to enhance safety. In the near future, exclusive turning lanes and lights will be installed at the intersection, providing dedicated green time for pedestrians and reducing conflicts with vehicles. Additionally, the Transportation and Safety Team is exploring the possibility of converting the intersection into a roundabout, although the timeline for this project is uncertain due to funding requirements.
A Call for Shared Responsibility
In the meantime, Ramotowski emphasizes the importance of shared responsibility on the roads. He encourages pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers to be mindful of each other, with cyclists dismounting before crossing intersections and pedestrians making eye contact with drivers before crossing. This shared responsibility approach aims to create a safer environment for all road users.
Conclusion
The story of Virgil Grandfield and his advocacy for a safer intersection highlights the complex interplay between urban design, traffic management, and community safety. It raises important questions about the role of historical design choices in modern-day safety concerns and the challenges of balancing efficient traffic flow with pedestrian and cyclist safety. As the city moves forward with its safety initiatives, the intersection of 13th Street S. and Ninth Avenue will serve as a reminder of the ongoing need for community engagement and advocacy in shaping our urban landscapes.
