ST. PAUL - Town of St. Paul council has opted for a few changes in a bid to create safer roads throughout the community.
The first change will see a reduced speed zone created along the entire length of Lakeshore Drive - from the condominium buildings near the west end of Lagasse Park at 47th Street, all the way to 40th Street, past Glen Avon school and along the newer stretch of residential homes.
With Lagasse Park and Lavoie Park located along the stretch, along with a Kindergarten to Grade 9 school in the area, Director of Protective Services Trevor Kotowich said he felt the change to a lower speed limit for the entire stretch would create a safer environment for pedestrians in the area.
During discussions at the May 10 council meeting, Town of St. Paul Mayor Maureen Miller said she's received a number of calls from residents regarding speeds along Lakeshore Drive, over the years.
The second change will see a four-way stop created at the intersection of 51 St. and 53 Ave.
"This area sees a substantial amount of congestion during different times of the day," said Kotowich. "I am requesting council consider turning this location into a four-way stop."
Kotowich said this change should alleviate some of the left hand turn collisions that occur at the intersection. The change should also improve safety for users of the walking trail and multi-use trail.
Kotowich said a one month grace period would be given by municipal enforcement, in order for motorists to get used to the changes, once the signs are installed. The Town will also work on educating the public about the changes.
The only costs associated with the changes will be the new signs.
Kotowich brought up a third traffic related change to council during the Monday night meeting. He recommended an area near Extendicare be turned into angle parking. There would be a cost of about $2,500 to create the additional parking, but it would help with congestion in the area, especially once the pandemic is over and regular visiting is allowed at the long-term care facility.
Work to drop the curb and remove some grass will be required to create the parking area. Kotowich noted that a crosswalk will also likely be required in the area, in the future.
Miller said she felt the angled parking was a great solution for the area.
All three of the recommendations were approved by council.
