Speed humps on residential streets?

NEWS RELEASE

SUSAN MYERS CITY COUNCILLOR WARD TWO

******************************* Speed humps on residential streets?

Ward Two residents on McGregor Avenue are testing out a first for the Sault with the completion of two speed humps installed on that street yesterday.

City Councillor for Ward Two Susan Myers says: “I was contacted by a resident last year asking if something could be done to slow the traffic and asked me if speed humps could be installed.”

The idea of speed humps is not to have a major effect on traffic that is traveling at or below the speed limit of 50 km/hr. 

It is to encourage the public to maintain travel at the speed limit or below. 

A petition was gathered with agreement by the residents to move forward on this pilot project.

Myers says she drove the street a couple of times yesterday at 50 km/hr and there was a significant jolt when she crossed these humps. 

“I am hopeful this will address the safety issue the residents are facing on this street,” she said. “School has resumed and the timing is good to slow down those who are not following the speed limit as children are crossing in that neighborhood.”

As the speed of vehicles increases above 50 km/hr, there will be even a greater reaction which is the goal and hopefully will slow down vehicles.

Since the reconstruction of McGregor Avenue five years ago, it has become a popular route for hurried southbound drivers from Wellington Street who do not wish to wait for the light at Pine Street intersection.

Jim Elliott, commissioner of public works, has stated this is a pilot project where the city is trying what has been used in other municipalities, and the effect will be assessed to determine whether it is effective in reducing the speeds to or below 50 km/hr.

A speed study will be carried out to determine what is occurring.

*******************************