Temporary changes are coming to the Fifth Street and Fitzgerald Avenue intersection, helping preview how a proposed new design will affect traffic patterns.
The “pop-up intersection” is part of the City of Courtenay’s planning process for the Fifth Street Complete Street Pilot Project. Complete Streets are designed with all road users in mind, including motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and transit users of all ages and abilities.
The temporary installation will use paint, temporary curb and flexible posts to replicate potential permanent changes to the intersection at a relatively low cost. The pop-up intersection will be installed starting April 18, and will remain in place for up to six months.
Craig Perry, the City of Courtenay’s manager of transportation and utilities – engineering, says the intersection changes are designed to reduce pedestrian exposure to vehicle traffic. “Right now, up to eight vehicles can arrive at the intersection simultaneously,” advised Perry. “This can be confusing for motorists, and it also means pedestrians need to cross a fairly lengthy distance in order to cross either Fifth or Fitzgerald.
“The pop-up intersection will reduce the crossing distance, and minimize the length of time pedestrians are exposed to traffic at this location.”
The results of the study will be used to guide the ultimate design of the intersection in advance of final design and construction of the Fifth Street Complete Streets Pilot Project. Construction is expected to occur during the 2018 construction season.
The Fifth Street Complete Street Pilot Project will include a substantial overhaul of above-ground and below-ground infrastructure on Fifth Street between Fitzgerald and Menzies Avenues. Once completed, the project will significantly improve walking and cycling routes. Along with new vegetation and other landscaping, other proposed improvements include innovative stormwater management through the installation of rain gardens throughout the corridor. Public consultation with area residents and businesses, along with the general public, has guided design to this point.
One hundred percent of eligible project costs up to $3.253 million will be covered through the federal Gas Tax Fund, under the Strategic Priorities Fund - Local Roads, Bridges and Active Transportation category.