Cyclists and pedestrians should feel safer with the Lansdowne and Foul Bay intersection upgrades complete.
Increased safety, improved traffic flow and enhancements for pedestrians and cyclists are primary goals for the enhancements that include a sensor for bikes and cars that inform the lights, bike lane and audible pedestrian crossing.
“This intersection is the most highly travelled intersection in our community, and these important upgrades reflect the changing transportation patterns that we are seeing on our roads,” said Coun. Michelle Kirby. “The new traffic light can sense vehicles as well as bikes and this recognition is designed to better manage traffic flow and improve safety. The new bike lane for northbound cyclists will make navigating this busy intersection safer and more enjoyable for all.”
As the intersection lies on the Saanich border, work was done in co-operation with the neighbouring district, which is working on improvements to the bike lane on the north side of Lansdowne Road. A popular route for cyclists and pedestrians attending adjacent Camosun College and the nearby University of Victoria, Foul Bay Road is major regional corridor for transit and regional bike networks.
An October 2013 traffic study found that the busiest time for vehicles was 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., showing 2,224 vehicles entering and exiting the intersection, with 51 per cent entering from Foul Bay Road north and south. It also confirmed a perceived north-south commuter pattern for cyclists.
The $232,000 upgrade included funding from ICBC, the province and the Capital Regional District.
“The CRD Pedestrian and Cycling Master Plan envisions the region as a place where walking and cycling are key components of an integrated transportation system,” said Jennifer Black, CRD active transportation program manager. “In partnering with the District of Oak Bay, the CRD is working toward the goal of connecting communities across the region via a seamless cycling and walking network appropriate for users of all ages and abilities.”
The CRD funded $75,000 toward extension of the Foul Bay Road bicycle lane and installation of bicycle-activated traffic lights as part of the implementation of the CRD Pedestrian and Cycling Master Plan.
ICBC contributed $40,350 to support traffic pattern improvements that promote greater vehicle flow efficiencies and public safety.
B.C.’s Ministry of Transportation contributed $52,828 from its BikeBC cost-sharing program to help local governments build cycling projects that attract and support commuter, recreational and tourism cyclists and pedestrians.
cvanreeuwyk@oakbaynews.com