Vancouver neighbourhood streets set to become much safer

What happened: Vancouver city council is moving forward on its plan to increase safety on Vancouver streets. A report to be reviewed on Wednesday recommends reducing the speed limit for streets in residential areas with no centre line from 50 km/h to 30 km/h. The plan is part of the city’s goal to reduce traffic-related deaths to zero by 2040.

Background: The change has some important metrics behind it. Research shows that reducing speeds in this way can cut pedestrian fatalities from 80 per cent to 15 per cent when a collision takes place. This has been part of a goal to reduce neighbourhood speed limits to 30 km/h. A pilot was done in Grandview-Woodland with signs on every block and in Strathcona, as well as on other arterial streets. 

• For local residents, another big benefit is quieter streets and better air quality.  

One problem: The change may come with some challenges, according to the Vancouver Sun, with the city acknowledging that it may be hard to enforce, especially during the transition. The Vancouver police may focus some officers’ time on paying special attention to slow zones when the program begins.

• One way to fix this is through physical changes and better signage, which the city is planning. This could include changing road designs, like adding speed bumps or narrowing streets in certain areas. 

Gateway areas: The Slow Zone Neighbourhood areas outlined in this map would receive extensive signage at entrance points into those neighbourhoods. It’s expected to cost around $350,000 to install signs in these slow zones. 

• What’s next: The vote will happen this Wednesday at city council. If approved, the first signs would be installed later this year. 

What it means: Not to be simplistic, but this change is a no-brainer. There is much debate amongst our readers about whether the city should reduce car usage, but it shouldn’t be controversial to reduce speeds where families and children spend most of their time. This will likely also have the added benefit of making it safer for scooter users and cyclists.