Abstract Manager

In a constrained urban environment with a road layout that has been in place for at least 50 years, updating an intersection configuration to address multi-modal transportation needs can be challenging. The intent of this review is to show possible improvement scenarios to address the needs of cyclists, cars, trucks, and school-age pedestrians in an urban setting adjacent to schools.

In this location, the loading school buses blocked traffic during the school entry and departure times due to the red flashing lights. The City and the school boards were interested in reviewing the road configuration to apply improvements to the area.

We looked at alternative configurations for school bus drop-offs, ensuring that they meet safety and efficiency requirements and analysed the adjacent 5 leg intersection to determine the most appropriate solution to optimize traffic flow and improve safety.

Two options for the redevelopment of the intersection were studied, based on the problems identified during field observations as well as input and data provided by the City. For each of the options, the intersection was separated into two separate intersections with traffic signals proposed at one of the intersections. Due to the proximity of the new intersection, some unorthodox solutions were considered for traffic control at this intersection.

One-way streets, new bus drop-off zones, removal of on-street parking, boulevards, pedestrian crossings were all features in some of the options. The study assessed the options based on a multi-criteria analysis and a recommendation was provided.