🚶♂️🚦 Innisfail is taking big steps towards safer streets! 🏙️ A new 3-5 year plan is set to enhance pedestrian safety across 20 intersections. #Innisfail #Olds #Alberta #PedestrianSafety
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Comprehensive Pedestrian Safety Review: Innisfail Plans for Future Improvements
Long-Awaited Review Presented
After nearly four months of anticipation, Innisfail town council received the results of an extensive pedestrian safety review covering 20 intersections throughout the town. Despite no immediate safety threats being identified, town administration is preparing to address the findings with a strategic three-to-five-year operational plan.
Background and Context
The call for a pedestrian safety review emerged after a compelling presentation by Lindsay Pickard, a long-time Innisfail resident, who nearly experienced a traffic accident in the downtown area. This incident, which occurred on February 15, spurred the council to act. By February 26, the town had enlisted the services of Aptus Engineering Ltd., a Red Deer-based consultancy, to conduct a thorough investigation of pedestrian safety at key intersections.
Findings and Recommendations
On July 22, during the town council’s regular meeting, Steven Kennedy, Director of Operational Services, presented the detailed findings of the consultant’s review. The extensive report, approximately 150 pages in length, was not included in the public agenda package but was summarized by Kennedy. The review assessed 20 intersections using various data sources, such as the 2019 Traffic Forecast Model, the 2023 Trails & Pedestrian Master Plan Update, and plans for the Trans-Canada Trail and Dodd’s Lake parking lot.
Kennedy highlighted that the intersections were chosen based on their significance and previous council feedback, including areas around Dodd’s Lake, Lakewood Drive, and Aspen. The consultant’s recommendations were categorized into three levels:
Immediate Attention: 14 out of 20 intersections fall into this category, needing relatively minor improvements such as additional signage, better-aligned painting, and clear markings. These adjustments can be managed within the town’s current operational budgets.
Additional Needs: This level involves more substantial changes that will require additional funding to implement.
Ultimate Recommendations: These are high-end suggestions necessitating significant capital investment.
Strategic Plan Moving Forward
Kennedy reassured the council that there were no critical safety concerns at the moment. The administration’s approach will be to incorporate the recommended improvements into their ongoing operational cycle over the next three to five years. They will update the council regularly on progress and highlight any high-priority issues that may arise, especially those requiring additional budget allocations.
In particular, the administration plans to apply for a grant through the Trans-Canada Trail program to upgrade the crossing at 56th Street and 52nd Avenue Close.
Addressing Future Developments
Mayor Jean Barclay raised concerns about potential traffic congestion around the new five-unit mall with a drive-thru, set to open near Main Street and 44th Avenue. This area, adjacent to the Innisfail Dairy Queen, may see increased traffic, and Barclay inquired about future traffic control and flow management plans.
Kennedy explained that another pedestrian count would be conducted after the mall opens, noting that the last count in 2019 did not account for this new development. Traffic flow will be managed with a right exit only from the drive-thru and a right turn in at the intersection of Main Street and 46th Avenue.
Ongoing Communication and Evaluation
Despite these plans, Mayor Barclay expressed lingering concerns about traffic around the new mall. She suggested engaging with Dairy Queen staff to discuss future traffic flow, emphasizing the importance of adaptive planning and infrastructure discussions.
Todd Becker, the town’s Chief Administrative Officer, acknowledged the need for ongoing evaluation and adjustment of traffic management strategies as developments arise. This proactive approach ensures that Innisfail remains responsive to changing conditions and continues to prioritize pedestrian safety.
Council's Approval
In conclusion, the council unanimously approved a motion to accept the draft pedestrian safety review report as information. This decision marks the beginning of a deliberate and phased approach to enhancing pedestrian safety in Innisfail, demonstrating the town’s commitment to creating a safer environment for all residents.
Final Thoughts
Innisfail’s proactive stance on pedestrian safety, driven by community concerns and backed by comprehensive data, sets a strong example for other towns. By planning strategically and staying adaptable, Innisfail is paving the way for a safer, more pedestrian-friendly future.