Some good news for Victoria cyclists. The city of Victoria is moving ahead with two major street redesigns that will reshape how people move through key corridors. And, officials say, make things safer for everyone, as reported by Cheknews.com
Construction is already underway on upgrades to Blanshard Street North and Cook Streets. Both projects are expected to finish later this year. Essentially much of the changes focus on reducing vehicle lanes and adding protected bike lanes. It’s a shift the city argues will better balance safety and traffic flow.
Car lane reductions with bike lanes added
On Cook Street, between Bay Street and Maple Road, traffic will be reduced from two lanes in each direction to one. In their place, protected bike lanes will run along both sides. The city says the move is backed by data showing the corridor can handle current vehicle volumes with fewer lanes.
City peeps also said that this stretch has seen some of the highest operating speeds in Victoria. Narrowing it to a single lane is expected to slow drivers. But it also creates space for safer crossings and wider sidewalks. Some overnight parking will be lost, though the city says efforts were made to preserve it where possible.
Blanshard Street, between Caledonia Avenue and Kings Road, will also see a reduction. It will go from three lanes in each direction to two. Protected bike lanes will be added on both sides. Remaining vehicle lanes will be widened to better accommodate larger trucks, which previously spilled into adjacent lanes.
In a time when bike lanes across the country seem to be under threat, it’s refreshing news. For unrefreshing news, check out what is happening in places like Montreal, or Toronto. But for now…kudos, Vic.
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Canadian Cycling Magazine…