What We Heard on Quidi Vidi Traffic Changes
On June 7, 2021, the City of St. John’s launched a public engagement process to assess a proposed pedestrian-only zone in the ‘inner gut’ of Quidi Vidi Village. The proposed change would be a pilot during summer 2021. Public opinion was sought on introducing one-way traffic flow from Regiment Road through Cadet Road east bound through the Village.
To gather feedback, letters were sent to residents and business owners in Quidi Vidi Village; a project page was created on the City’s public engagement website with Quick Polls and a Question-and-Answer section; virtual engagement sessions were promoted for both residents and the business community; individuals were invited to submit emails, letters or phone messages; and staff met with the organization’s Inclusion Advisory Committee on the plan. The proposal was also promoted on the City’s social media channels.
Generally, both residents and business owners were supportive of the inner gut closure and like the concept of piloting this change this summer and making a permanent change only if the pilot is deemed a success.
Businesses generally are more supportive of a weekend-only closure for the pilot, while residents prefer to see it every day. Access remains a priority for both residents and business owners, so the use of staffed barricades is a necessity; residents want to be able to drive to their properties within the closure and also have visitors be able to drive to their properties to park, while businesses need vehicular access for deliveries and trucks. Some businesses expressed desire for drop off and pick up options for their customers.
Generally, businesses supported the concept of one-way traffic through the Village, but opinions on this matter were mixed from residents. Concerns included inconvenience for residents who would need to circle around the lake and also fears that one-way traffic may in fact increase speeds through the area. Some residents were in favour of one-way traffic and suggested speed cushions would be essential if this were in place.
To read the ‘What We Heard document and all feedback gathered, visit engagestjohns.ca.
Council will review the results of the public engagement process at the upcoming Committee of the Whole meeting on June 30, 2021. If the proposal is approved, feedback gathered from the Inclusion Advisory Committee will be considered to ensure the changes reflect the needs of users with all abilities.