Division Avenue; More Than Just A Name

We're Not Gonna TakeIt!

People are upset, and it's well known. The situation reached a breaking point with the work on Division Ave and 8^th Street. The main issue is the lack of proper public engagement, especially with those most affected by the changes. Significant work was needed on the aging infrastructure, so it seemed logical to incorporate some ideas from The Transportation Master Plan. However, residents were not adequately informed, particularly about the details.

I’ve traveled through the area by both truck and bicycle. Generally, it wasn't a problem for me due to low traffic, good weather, and no rush. This is one of those divisive issues often discussed, especially during elections. However, it's not a car vs. bike debate. It's more about taking the "narrow the roads" concept from the TMP too far. I’ll discuss our multi-path system in a future blog as it deserves its own discussion.

Traffic circles are excellent but should be placed in higher traffic areas than where they currently are. The intersection at College and Kipling seems like a better candidate, though I'm not an engineer, just a resident. Anyone who has been to Calgary or Edmonton understands the efficiency of traffic circles, which are undoubtedly better than four-way stops.

Research is important, but it must be credible. The online survey lacked enough respondents to be truly representative. My background in broadcasting involved research and communications. You had to ask questions, sometimes receiving unwelcome answers, but the aim was always to ask more and balance that with known information, then inform people about your actions.

As I mentioned, I'm just a resident, but I care deeply.

Drive Safe.