The intersection of 13th Street S. and Ninth Avenue in Lethbridge, Alberta, has become a flashpoint for safety concerns, with a local resident, Virgil Grandfield, taking a stand against what he perceives as a dangerous and unresponsive city administration. Grandfield's advocacy is fueled by a recent string of incidents, including a pedestrian and cyclist being struck by vehicles within a two-month period, highlighting the urgent need for action.
Grandfield's frustration stems from his persistent calls to the City of Lethbridge Transportation Safety Team since 2022, urging them to reconsider the traffic regulations on 13th Street. He advocates for a reduction in the speed limit from 50 km/h to 40 km/h, the installation of traffic radar, and the implementation of a street redesign proposed in 2021. However, his requests have seemingly fallen on deaf ears, with no changes made in nearly four years.
The street's history is intriguing. Originally designed to accommodate horse-drawn carriages, it has evolved into a four-lane road, a transformation that has raised concerns about its suitability as an arterial street. Ahmed Ali, the transportation engineering manager, argues that the street's role as a primary connector between the city's north and south ends justifies maintaining the speed limit.
The City's two-day traffic report in November 2022 revealed a troubling trend, with nearly 73% of vehicles exceeding the speed limit, with the highest recorded speed reaching 110 km/h. This is particularly concerning given the intersection's proximity to a school and its classification as an arterial road, exempting it from school zone regulations. Lethbridge police have identified the intersection as a high-collision area, prompting weekly traffic enforcement projects.
The debate over speed limits and safety is complex. While feedback signs have shown some positive impact, with the 85th percentile of the road at approximately 57 km/h, studies indicate a stark difference in fatality risk. A pedestrian's chances of survival increase from 50% at 50 km/h to 80% at 60 km/h. Sgt. Tony Ramotowski emphasizes the critical role of reaction time, stating that a 10 km/h speed difference can significantly increase stopping distance, potentially leading to collisions.
The City of Lethbridge is taking steps to address these concerns. Exclusive turning lanes and lights are set to be installed, aiming to reduce conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles. Additionally, the Transportation and Safety Team is exploring the conversion of the intersection into a roundabout, a project that requires capital funding and has yet to be implemented.
In the meantime, Ramotowski offers practical advice for road users, urging pedestrians to make eye contact with drivers and cyclists to dismount before crossing intersections. These measures, while important, underscore the ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety of all road users at this critical intersection.
This situation raises deeper questions about urban planning, public safety, and the effectiveness of local governance. It highlights the need for a more responsive and adaptive approach to addressing the evolving needs of a city's infrastructure. As the city continues to grapple with these concerns, the fate of 13th Street S. and Ninth Avenue remains a testament to the complexities of urban development and the ongoing struggle to balance progress with safety.
