Speeding along the busy street with two schools raises safety concerns
The ad hoc committee studying speeding and road safety provided council members with some traffic-calming options for Landegger Drive and its intersection with Route 105.
The wide high-traffic residential street home to two schools faces excessive speed and dangerous driving, explained the committee, chaired by Coun. Katie Nozzolillo, in its report.
The report also cited problems with Route 105, especially where it intersects with Landegger.
It noted that Route 105 is a congested area with a speed limit of 70 km/hr, and many children are crossing the road without the benefit of sidewalks or crosswalks.
The report also noted that the provincially designated highway has upwards of 100 tractor-trailers daily.
“The goal of this committee is to make recommendations to the Nackawic-Millville Rural Community council regarding the safety of both areas,” the committee explained in its report.
Councillors Robert Simpson and Colin Trail join Nozzolillo on the committee.
The report identified several traffic-calming options, including temporary speed bumps, permanent speed bumps, additional stop signs or raised medians between lanes.
Nozzolillo said the committee hopes to get feedback from officials from the Capital Regional Service Commission or the City of Fredericton but has yet to hear back.
The report suggested planting trees on the raised medians to reduce sight lines and “comfort” for speeders. It also suggested adjustments include bike lanes, a pedestrian area or street parking to narrow traffic lanes.
The report explained all chosen options, such as narrowing lanes or adding obstacles, require careful consideration.
The report listed the pros and cons of each option, noting school buses travelling to and from the schools, garbage trucks, snow removal or fire department access will feel the impact of changes.
Simpson said the committee, council and staff need the input of experts before making a final decision on the best option.
