Prince Rupert drivers may have to slow down along the main thoroughfares after concerns from the city regarding safety.
The city will be contacting the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure on a possible speed limit reduction along Park Avenue, 2nd Avenue West and McBride Street.
The idea came from Coun. Anna Ashley, who spoke of uneasiness she’s heard from Rupertites regarding the amount of truck traffic moving through Prince Rupert.
“We haven’t had any accidents, thankfully... But there is a concern. While most of the truck drivers are driving through fairly safely, there are some moving through fast,” she said.
“I’m worried, especially during the dark times, that someone may get hit.”
Ashley suggested until the Port of Prince Rupert completes its planned bypass road, the speed limit on Park Avenue, 2nd Avenue West and McBride Street be reduced to 40 kilometres per hour.
“Considering we’re a small town I think slowing the traffic down a bit on those main thoroughfares is a sacrifice we might willing to take for safety,” she said.
Coun. Joy Thorkelson agreed with the idea, mentioning in larger communities traffic lights help to slow vehicles down. Thorkelson said she’s noticed many vehicles speed up to make the lights in Prince Rupert.
“It’s unusual to have that kind of slow traffic through the downtown, but it sure is better than having somebody smacked, particularly by one of those larger trucks because they can’t stop,” Thorkelson said.
Coun. Gina Garon also liked the idea of decreasing the speed limit, but added pedestrians need to take responsibility for their safety, as well. As a driver, Garon said she’s experienced many people unexpectedly walking into the road.
“I think the general public needs to stop, look and listen before they cross the street because a lot of people just dart out,” she said.
Mayor Jack Mussallem worried slowing the speed limit on the main drags could clog up other Prince Rupert streets like 3rd Avenue West because people could drive faster on them.
Bob Long, city manager, said he believes the idea will have some resistance from the ministry, but agreed it was worth having a discussion about.