ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

TO:

Standing Committee of Transportation and Traffic

FROM:

General Manager of Engineering Services

SUBJECT:

North-East Kitsilano Traffic Calming Plan - Temporary Measures

 

RECOMMENDATION

COUNCIL POLICY

The Transportation Plan provides that the traffic calming program should give priority to streets and neighbourhoods where the traffic impacts are most serious.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this report is to seek Council's approval to make permanent the trial traffic calming measures associated with the North-East Kitsilano traffic calming plan.

BACKGROUND

On July 6, 1999, Council approved the North-East Kitsilano traffic calming plan. This plan included a new traffic calming measure, three mid-block bicycle bulges on CypressStreet between 4th and 1st Avenues. Bicycle mid-block bulges are similar to other mid-block bulges except they extend further into the street to allow only one lane of traffic. When vehicles travelling in opposite directions meet at the bulge, one vehicle must yield. This is similar to many of the local streets that have mid-block parking such that only one vehicle can drive through at a time. The bulge is designed so that cyclists can ride directly through the bulge and not have to wait for oncoming traffic.

There are three mid-block bicycle bulges between 1st and 4th. At the bulge between 1st and 2nd, southbound traffic yields to oncoming traffic. At the other bulges (between 2nd and 3rd and between 3rd and 4th), the northbound traffic yields to oncoming traffic. The bicycle bulges are used only on the Cypress bicycle route and are used to reduce traffic speeds, volumes and ensure bicycle safety.

The traffic calming plan also introduced left-turn restrictions in the afternoon rush period which limit turns off Burrard Street at 2nd and 3rd Avenues. This measure encourages rush-hour commuters to remain on Burrard Street and reduce shortcutting through the neighbourhood. It was agreed that the new left-turn at Cornwall, the upgraded signal at 1st Avenue and the left-turn at 4th Avenue provide sufficient turning opportunities.

The three mid-block bicycle bulges and left-turn restrictions were installed on a temporary basis so the neighbourhood could assess them for report back to Council to make them permanent. In order that an objective assessment be made possible, traffic counts were taken before and after the introduction of these measures. The results of these traffic counts are now available and show an overall reduction in neighbourhood traffic of 25%.

PUBLIC CONSULTATION

The North-East Kitsilano neighbourhood was surveyed about whether to make the mid-block bicycle bulges and left-turn restrictions permanent (see Appendix "A").

The results of the survey are:
- surveys distributed = 1745
- surveys returned = 280 a 16% response rate
- of those responding, 66% were in favour of the mid-block bicycle bulges, 29% were opposed and 5% were neutral
- of those responding, 78% were in favour of the left-turn restrictions, 15% were opposed and 7% were neutral

Comments from the survey are found in Appendix B.

To conclude, the North-East Kitsilano neighbourhood supports the mid-block bicycle bulges and left-turn restrictions as important components of their neighbourhood traffic calming plan and it is recommended that they be made permanent

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

The cost for the mid-block bicycle bulges is estimated at $50,000 if they were built separately. However, the Dedicated Fire Protection System will be digging-up Cypress Street in the near future and the permanent bulges can be installed when the street is repaired at no additional cost.

CONCLUSION

The mid-block bicycle bulges and left-turn restrictions are important components of the North-East Kitsilano neighbourhood traffic calming plan. The neighbourhood supports making them permanent and Council approval is recommended.

* * * * *

Appendix "A"

City of Vancouver February 2001

Dear Resident:

This survey seeks your opinion on the mid-block bicycle bulges on Cypress Street between 4th and 1st Avenues and the No Left Turn 3-6pm restrictions off Burrard Street at 2nd and 3rd Avenues.

In 1999, responding to neighbourhood concerns about the safety and livability of area streets, the City of Vancouver approved a traffic calming plan for your neighbourhood (the area bounded by Cornwall, Burrard, Arbutus and 4th). The intent of this plan is to reduce commuter shortcutting and to ensure pedestrian, cyclist and motorist safety while maintaining ease of access and parking for local residents. The plan includes landscaped corner bulges at each entrance point to your neighbourhood, parking changes on the Cypress Street bicycle route, north-south stop signs for Maple Street at York Avenue, left-turn restrictions (3-6pm) off Burrard Street at 2nd and 3rd Avenues, and mid-block bicycle bulges along Cypress Street.

The Cypress Street mid-block bicycle bulges and the Burrard Street left turn restrictions were introduced as temporary measures pending a trial period to assess their effectiveness. In order that an objective assessment be made possible, traffic counts were taken before and after the introduction of these measures. The results of these traffic counts are now available and show an overall reduction in neighbourhood traffic of 25%.

This survey seeks your opinion on these two trial measures and the results will be reported to Vancouver City Council. If approved by Council, the temporary, yellow cement bicycle bulges will be made permanent with regular sized curbing and brushed concrete or exposed aggregate surfacing (see over) similar to the corner bulge at the north-east corner of Maple and York.

Please detach the reply card along the perforation and mail by February 28, 2001. If you have any additional comments, please fax them to 871-6192, e-mail jim_hall@city.vancouver.bc.ca or mail to Engineering Services, City Hall, 453 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, B.C. V5Y 1V4. All responses will remain confidential. If you have any questions, call Jim Hall at 873-7130 or e-mail jim_hall@city.vancouver.bc.ca

Please detach the reply card along the perforation and mail.

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Name: __________________ Address: _____________________________________ Postal Code ___ ___

Do you support the mid-block bicycle bulges on Cypress Street? Yes No Neutral

Do you support the left turn restrictions (3-6pm) on Burrard at 2nd and 3rd? Yes No Neutral
I would like to be advised when this issue goes before Council (check box, ensure full mailing address)

I offer the following comments: __________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________

Please detach the reply card along the perforation and mail.

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REPLY MAIL
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APPENDIX "B"

COMMENTS OF THOSE SUPPORTING (YES) THE MID-BLOCK BICYCLE BULGES

- I am very pleased with the efforts you are making to reduce traffic and speeding
- It makes a big difference to the safety of pedestrians which I am one. Keep up the good work.
- As a long-time (23 years) resident of this neighbourhood, I have really noticed the difference the traffic calming measures have made to the ambience of the neighbourhood. There's a noticeable reduction in both speed and number of vehicles on Cypress St. & 2nd Ave. Thank-you.
- 25% is not enough. The bulges have not done anything for the Cypress and 2nd corner. Still impossible for pedestrians to cross. Plus motorists speed up after passing the bulge and speed across 2nd & Cypress. As I have said all along! We demand a traffic circle! The 1880 W. 2nd Apts. (Woodcrott) all agree.
- Skateboarders are using the yellow, temporary concrete blocks to do tricks. Cyclists quite often ignore the bicycle path and ride down the middle of Cypress, even with cars around.

COMMENTS OF THOSE NOT SUPPORTING (NO) THE MID-BLOCK BICYCLE BULGES

- Mid-block bulges cause motorist aggravation, present an obstacle to cyclists and I believe they will lead to more injuries to motorist, pedestrian and cyclists. I own and use a car, a bike and roller blades. I agree with end-of-block bulges - they will improve pedestrian safety by improving visibility - I think they should all be either paved or covered with grass similar to York & Maple and not like York & Cypress.
- Just moved traffic to Maple. Need a 4-way stop at Maple and 3rd Ave and need a radar on Cornwall. Speeds are way too fast.
- All this does is funnel traffic onto Maple Street. Does someone on Council live on Cypress Street?
- I drive through this area everyday and the clear solution is four way stops at 2nd and 3rd on Cypress. Impeding the traffic flow does not enhance safety. Therefore the bulges have to be removed. The landscaped ones are particularly hazardous. It makes driving in my own neighbourhood more stressful than it should be.
- Most cyclists don't use the bulges and cycle in the middle of the road.
- The bulges are hazardous. I think car traffic exceed bicycles by a factor or 100 to 1. I have seen accidents there as a result.
- A definite no to bulges as these are very dangerous and confusing to motorists. Also very ugly. A waste of taxpayer money. Bikes should go on quieter streets, east of Burrard where less traffic. Also the cutting back of parking at corners of streets (see Burrard at 3rd Ave. is ridiculous as parking is already a challenge.
- The decorative concert `bulges' make turning off Burrard dangerous and could cause accidents.
- Access to my home is now more difficult and dangerous. Traffic on Cypress is reduced, but congestion and discourtesy increased. With no stop signs on Cypress, speeding bicycles hidden by slow-moving cars terrorize and abuse pedestrian.
- More traffic circles and 4-way stops.
- The bicycles bulges have created a hazard for bicyclists. When cycling around, autos almost hit by cyclists.
- The road is for cars; not withstanding, please don't make it more miserable for motorists. Note that I am a die-hard pedestrian and bus rider but I think the traffic "calming"bulges are hazardous for all concerned. The road is for cars.
- If the bulges are left in, better lighting is required on Cypress. It is very dark and dangerous when the trees on Cypress have leaves on them.
- I have found that the bicycle bulges have caused more traffic problems than they have solved. Traffic from alley ways congesting with the bulges. Cars not giving right of way at bulges and back ups at the Cypress 4-way stop caused by the bicycle bulges.
- You have introduced a dangerous situation on Cypress which puts everyone at risk. A traffic circle at 1st and Cypress would have been sufficient.
- Remove bicycle bulges asap.
- I cycle regularly and these curbs cause problems likewise the traffic circles less room to avoid cars.
- I would prefer a circle to be put in on 2nd and Cypress Street so that traffic would have to slow down.
- City Hall has already screwed traffic in this city; get someone who knows what they are doing - instead of this mickey mouse approach.
- The mid-block bulges are dangerous for motor vehicles especially at night. Also, they increase traffic line ups. I like the landscaped corner bulges because they are attractive but again it is a safety concern for drivers. If you are waiting at Cypress and York to make a turn and a vehicle is making a turn onto York there is very limited space.
- The bulges are more of an annoyance and just narrow an already narrow street. Want to slow commuter traffic? Add a stop sign at 3rd Ave and Cypress intersection (4-way stop).
- As cyclists, the bicycle bulges direct you into parked cars. We don't use them as it doesn't seem safe. They have also caused a number of traffic bottlenecks - drivers don't seem to know what to do with them. Pedestrian bulges are great on corners.
- I think the mid-block bicycle bulges are dangerous to both cyclists and drivers. An accident could easily occur at the lanes as they project so far out. Alternating stop signs all the way down Cypress would accomplish slowing traffic down. To my way of thinking none of the bulges slow traffic. What does work are the parking allocations on either side of the street and the increased number of stop signs.
- I believe that the amount of speed of traffic going through 1st and Cypress is very dangerous. From what I have seen in other areas of the city, large speed bumps placed all along 1st for a 2 block radius, and on Cypress would resolve this issue better. Right now, especially on 1st, people speed like maniacs with their expensive cars, but I think they would think twice if a possibility of blowing a tire or damaging the bottom of their expensive cars exists. I also think that possibility of parking only on one side of Cypress and 1st as well would improve things as well as no parking in the alley by Canadian Tire.
- I intend to move from this area. The bulges create ridiculous "stand-offs" when I try to either enter or exit the back lane. I oppose any obstacle that restricts the flow of traffic on a city street to on car at a time. I have cars too, I hate driving, but I have to drive to work and at work. I don't need you making inconveniences and annoyances for me. Reverse this restriction, eliminate parking on both sides of W. 3rd and other streets that are as narrow. Again, who elected you or gave you the right to create inconvenience? Can't you figure out how to accommodate cycles and cars? Shouldn't you be required to accommodate both?
- (Diagram included) Care © drive straight at the bikes. (b) coming the other way. (b) is never sure the car knows (b) is there. At speed, the cars are always in the opposite bike lane. Often cars at this angle cannot see pedestrians. It feels like more treacherous on the road. Don't traffic circles work better?
- Cypress Street does not work, you can become head on with a bicycle there is no room in parts, it look awful, have cars turn up Cypress from Cornwall anytime and more people will use turn off on Burrard and Cornwall, you have put in a great turn off, them stopped people turning when they need it most. There are a lot of people living in that area so people use 2nd and 3rd as you do not give a choice.
- The bulges on the street are simply a stupid waste of money. If you want to make sure people use 4th or Burrard make sure they move faster than side streets. Put no left turns at all the streets between certain streets. By the way, who cares if there is traffic on smaller streets: we live in a city not a town. Whoever is managing traffic in Vancouver is obviously not good at it. It is time to hire competent people to that job. Vancouver is a city not a town.
- I am a resident at 1900 W. 3rd Ave. Upon exiting from the underground parking garage into the lane (shared by 3rd and 2nd Aves) proceeding East down the lane to Cypress, there is a very real traffic hazard at the intersection of this lane (alley) and Cypress St. where there is a mid-block bicycle bulge. The cars proceeding north on Cypress (from 4th Ave.) Tend to drive on the west side of Cypress as they approach the constriction at the bicycle bulge (if there is not southbound oncoming traffic occurring at the time). Usually, there are vehicles parked on the west side of Cypress (some of which are trucks, trailers etc) which severely impede the vision of the driver of the vehicle exiting from the lane. Because parking is allowed all the way to the lane, it is very difficult checking for oncoming traffic until you nose your car onto Cypress St.
- The bulges do not ensure safety. I have narrowly avoided accidents when exiting the lane off the 1800 block between 1st and 2nd Ave. The parking on Cypress also is dangerous. When a large vehicle is parked in the stall closest to the lane, one cannot see another vehicle heading south on Cypress.
- Install 4-way stop signs on intersections! Mid-block bicycle bulges have turned Maple into a fast moving traffic route for huge delivery trucks, sightseeing buses etc. Large vehicles should be restricted to using the main arterial like Burrard, 4th Ave and Cornwall. If mid-block bulges are installed do the same on Maple St.
- The curbing on the southwest side on 1st Ave. and Cypress becomes a hazard when delivery trucks are delivering to the two stores on that corner. The trucks are there a lot.
- I support the objective of the bulges to reduce traffic. However, they continue to confuse motorists and even cyclists and they are unsightly as well. There is still a lot of traffic for local street. Perhaps no left turns ever for east bound 4th Ave. traffic on to 3rd.
- This is a very dangerous system. There are more screeching brakes since this change than before. I hope you return this street to the way it was. I've lived here for 15 years - I never had a problem getting in and out of the alley until you made this change.
- The cars simply speed around the bulges. In fact it is more dangerous now because the bulges force the cars to go onto the opposite lane of traffic to get around them -this leads to speeding drivers racing to the bulges in order not to have to yield to on coming traffic. It's no better than before. What is needed is at least 4 way stops at all the corners between 4th and Cornwall on Cypress or put in at least one diverter such as in the west end, so that cars cannot use it (Cypress) as a thoroughfare - but it could still be open for bikes.
- I have seen a number of "close calls" involving cyclists and pedestrians and cars due to bulges.
- We don't need concrete blocks fouling up the roads. It's a mess. By all means mark off a cycle lane where cyclists have full priority. (There are few cyclists so the road is available for other traffic also.) We have enough congestion as it is without silly little "gardens" being set up in road space). Surely your "thinkers" can come up with better ideas! (Remember the silly idea to close off one lane on Burrard St. Bridge (for the cyclists) that was a fiasco too. Careful drivers will respect cyclists and pedestrians on the road. It would be more useful to insist all cyclists have lights and bells - often they are very difficult to see when the weather is poor and in night-time conditions.
- We should have a few more non-restricted parking areas for guests and family.
- The bulges are worthless only the skateboarders use them for fun. They cause congestion. Traffic is irritated and gets tempers flaring. We need a traffic circle at 2nd and Cypress because it is impossible for pedestrians to cross Cypress St. The speed of the cars on Cypress has not been decreased.
- I find the mid-block bulges to be dangerous to cyclists, pedestrians and motorists alike, especially when conditions are icy.
- I appreciate an overall reduction in my neighbourhood traffic of 25% and think it's great. However, the mid-block bulge on Cypress St. have made it difficult to get out from and into my parking lot and they also make it difficult to drive when it's dark and bad weather. I'd appreciate if you could reconsider the effects of them.
- The traffic have been reduced by the bulges, but people who use the street have no patience and drive like idiots. I have seen several near misses with people on Cypress and those coming out of / turning into the alley near Mark's Work Warehouse. Don't go to traffic circles either, as it is very difficult to cross the street as a pedestrian.
- I think residents are more conscious of the hazards and are slowing down therefore the bicycle bulges are unnecessary - in fact they are more hazardous when truck are on the road.
- Need more street parking or meters. No heavy trucks should be allowed into this area during the day time or rush hours.
- The round about at Arbutus and 1st Ave needs signs indicating how to use it (i.e. to yield to traffic in the round about) or else it should be removed. Most drivers don't know how to use it, don't slow down at all as they enter it, and they endanger the lives of pedestrians. People end up driving in the area that would be a crosswalk if it were a 4-way stop and they don't slow down or stop if people are crossing the street. The drivers come dangerously close to hitting pedestrians as a result. A 4-way stop would eliminate the confusion and hazards to pedestrians.
- I have found driving more hazardous, not less, since you instituted the bulges and both sides of the street parking. If anything, more people are treating our back lane as a shortcut and there's a huge problem created by vans and SUV's parking on either side of intersections & lane/driveway entrances to streets, especially Maple. They block views of oncoming traffic completely. I do approve of the 4-way stop signs and the end-of-block bulges.
- I would prefer more roundabouts at more intersections.
- The bicycle bulges are confusing to cars and bikes. I think they are dangerous and will lead to a serious accident.
- I think the mid-block bicycle bulges are dangerous. I'm surprised there haven't been an accidents. I use the lane between 1st and 2nd and I've never seen a bicycle but its very tricky sometimes trying to avoid cars.
- I've seen cars "race" around the bulges to avoid having to yield to the opposing traffic. Cars yielding at bulges block the bicycle lanes - there is not enough room for parked cars, bicycles, and traffic. On weekends, congestion at Cypress and 1st and Cypress and York is dangerous. Much of the congestions is due to the bike route and new traffic/parking regulations. The old regs, without a bike lane, would probably be better. Just add speed bumps on Cypress to control the speed. Traffic jams happen all the time. Because of Canadian Tire, shops on Cypress and 1st Ave.,controlled intersection at Cypress and Cornwall, Cypress Street has always had much car traffic. I do not feel that Cypress became dangerous until the bike route and bulges were put in. (If speed was a concern then put in speed bumps) I believe the bike route would be better off on Maple - away from the car traffic on Cypress. As long as there are retail shops on or near Cypress, there will be cars on Cypress.
- Parking is scarce in this neighbourhood. The bicycle bulges consume too many parking spaces. I suggest conventional speed bumps to slow down the traffic.
- Have to be careful not to calm traffic to a stand still within our neighbourhood - we still need to use the streets.
- The bike bulges are dangerous and I really hate them.
- Bicycle bulges cause minor traffic jam along Cypress during higher traffic times.
- I prefer 4-way stops or 2-way stops. I do not support bulges at the intersections. Between circles and bulges it's a mess.
- The decrease of 25% may also be attributed to the left turn bays northbound on Burrard St at Cornwall and 4th Avenue. The bicycle bulges have resulted in confusion and some near accidents (MVA) which I have witnessed. Not very impressive.
- The traffic got worse since the changes.
- N.B.G. stop.
- I'd like to see bikers pay insurance fees. I find them often careless and seem to have a resentment against auto drivers. Messenger service bicycles are terrible for cutting in etc. These people want special roadway service but do not contribute to such.
- Anything that reduces the risk on that Cypress speedway certainly helps pedestrians, but I think the present setup makes Cypress more dangerous for bicyclists. While the mid-block bulges work for cyclists on the bulge side, they endanger cyclists going in the other direction by forcing all the vehicle traffic to their side, and make the bikeway less convenient - I'd prefer not to share the sidewalk with cyclists who are trying to stay out of the way of vehicles. Instead of mid-block bulges, I'd much prefer intersection islands, especially at 3rd and Cypress. I think islands would also reduce the traffic off Burrard that turns westbound onto 3rd Avenue to avoid the delays of the 4th & Burrard intersection and the 4th Avenue hill - some drivers apparently haven't been much discouraged by the mid-block one-lane bottlenecks created by both-sides parking. Finally, I know that installation of new stoplights are expensive, but: when will we get lights at 1st and Cypress? That's a 4-way-stop intersection, a problem for drivers, cyclists and certainly pedestrians.
- In my opinion these bulges are dangerous and cause more problems than they solve. I would have installed 4-way stop signs at the intersections of Cypress and 3rd, 2nd and York. I would also have the additional parking only on one side of Cypress. Why has traffic cutting through on Cypress been less? In my opinion the installation of the left/west turn off Burrard onto Cornwall (FINALLY) has had a great effect on this siuation. I feel the mid-block bicycle bulges are dangerous because at a certain angle while swerving around them, the 1/2 height signs in the middle of thestreet actually block the view of on-coming traffic, including cyclists! Also, on rainy and/or dark nights the bulges are not easily seen! And, the 1/2 height signs in the middle of the street, if I don't swerve around them wide enough, are at the right height to hit my car/side view mirror. I have a small car. What about larger vehicles? I'm forced to drive on the wrong side of the road to clear the bulges and signs. I've had a skateboarder use one of the bulges as a jump and he landed right in front of my car! The bulges do not slow down the traffic because it is possible to have a 2-1/2 block right of way so the drivers of all size of vehicle zip along Cypress zig-zagging at a usual/usual plus speed trying to make up lost time (seconds) or to get to the next bulge ahead of the on-coming traffic. The need to swerve around the bulges could pose "center of gravity" balance and width (?) problems for larger vehicles, ie. vans, SUVs, trucks. As I make a north turn off 4th onto Cypress I'm often stopped right away (sometimes I can't make the right turn right away) because of a traffic jam at the lane just one-half block from 4th Ave. The jam is created by vehicles in both lanes and several vehicles with the right of way heading south (to 4th) waiting for the light at 4th to turn green and no one can go until the light turns green!!! Then I'm still on the wrong side of the street (it is barely one-half block!) for when I make my left/west turn onto 3rd Ave. However, if south bound traffic is coming I must swerve back to my side of the road and then make the west/left turn all within one-half block!! By this time drivers waiting at the stop signs on 3rd Ave. have crept forward into the intersections in order to see around the parked cars re: is traffic coming/is it clear to cross/turn? Regarding providing parking for residents and safety of cyclists, cars park right in front of the angled bulges so cyclists using the narrowed bike path through the bulges are directed more so towards the center of the road to go around these parked cars. How is this considered safe!! I have seen cyclists totally ignore the painted bike paths and swerve around the bulges as per vehicles. How is this considered safe!! Most cyclists need to provide for their own safety better than they do!! All cyclists need decent-sized headlight on their bikes and a decent-sized rear light on their bikes and, unfortunately most of the cyclists in Vancouver do not have these lights, especially the headlight!!!! Wouldn't it actually be safer and address the problem of drivers "cutting through" on Cypress if 4-way stop signs at each intersection on Cypress were installed?? Drivers do not like to have to stop at each intersection. Drivers who just want to cut through, ie. who do not live in the area or have business (etc.) in the area, will usually opt to stay on Burrard now that they can turn west off Burrard onto Cornwall. Wouldn't it actually be safer for everyone to have parking on just one side of Cypress leaving two straight driving lanes for vehicles and cyclists!! Therfore, no one has to drive in a swerving, zig-zagging manner!!! Please take away the bulges!! please give this idea of installing 4-way stop signs at 3rd, 2nd and York along Cypress with parking only on one side of Cypress an equal trial period. Oh, "round-abouts" are as bad as the bulges (in my opinion!!!)
- The bicycle bulges are incredibly dangerous, cars are forced into the bicycle lanesat the bulges. When cars need to turn onto side streets, eg. between 3rd and 4th @ Cypress, no one can understand the priority and all hell breaks loose. Or, restrict turns onto Cypress from 4th instead - although that will upset Marks Work Warehouse and Videomanic! Or, get rid of the cycle bulges.

COMMENTS OF THOSE NEUTRAL ABOUT THE MID-BLOCK BICYCLE BULGES
- Why bulges as opposed to stop signs.
- How can this response remain confidential on an open card? I feel the bid-block bulges cause unnecessary frustration - surely 4-way stop signs and /or alternate block stop signs would calm the traffic equally well?
- We live at 2nd and Cypress and due to the traffic volume and parking on Cypress it is difficult to see the cyclists. I believe a traffic circle would be better than the bulges. It may also slow the traffic on Cypress between 1st and 3rd Ave.
- I believe that a four-way stop is needed on the corner of Maple and 3rd Ave. I hear loud honking several times a day from near accidents. Drivers are either ignoring the stop sign and/or they cannot safely see the oncoming traffic because of parked cars and the slope in the road. It would be safer if there was a four-way stop.
- The bulge on 3rd Ave. between Burrard and Cypress has taken an extra parking space. I can't see why this construction was necessary.
- I agree in decreasing the traffic flow. The problem I have is that the bulges are dangerous to the cyclists and frustrating for the drivers. This will eventually result in a serious accident. I recommend traffic circles - the circles calm the traffic and allows for a more consistent flow for the cyclists and the drivers.
- Since I live on York Ave. near Maple I am not living in the area noted above. My area here 2 block west of the above mentioned area is a very quiet area. There are no indentations at York and Maple. Traffic flows in a regular manner and all motorists obey the 4-way stop signs at York and Maple - very efficient.
- Is there somewhere better for the money than to make landscaped bulges and have decorative concrete.

COMMENTS OF THOSE SUPPORTING (YES) THE LEFT TURN RESTRICTIONS

- Put a solid meridian from 4th North to 1st on Burrard as to stop all traffic from turning left, as they still turn even with no left turn signs. I have seen at least 2 dozen accidents at this intersection (3rd & Burrard), you would think that ICBC would help in this situation. I have added this before mailing on Feb. 18th and there is yet one more accident as I write this.
- No left turn onto 3rd could be better enforced.
- Also needs to be applicable on 1st Ave. There is still way too much traffic comingin off Burrard onto 1st - in my view, due to restrictions to turn left on 2nd & 3rd. We on 1st Ave. are now getting all the excess traffic. It's extremely annoying. I will suggest this again as I don't know if it's already in place: City Hall and Translink really need to work together on reducing the number of single occupant vehicle users by increasing the availability/accessibility of transit options. I feel this is really the bottom line approach you both should be taking. Everything else, while appreciated, is band-aid at best. Also, why not team up with ICBC while you're at it to come up with further incentives to use your vehicle less? i.e. money rebate at end of year based on mileage used.
- Cars are still turning onto 2nd and 3rd Ave. between 3-6pm, ignoring the signs telling them not to. Lack of police enforcement is to blame, I have only seen them there once giving out tickets to violators.
- A left turn signal at Burrard (going north) & 4th.
- I would also like to see west-end style forced turns at intersections like 3rd Ave. & Arbutus where it is like a highway at all hours (not only from 3-6pm). People driving rarely stop for the four-way stop sign and it is becoming very dangerous!
- Since the stop light was erected at 1st & Burrard, 1st Ave. has become a speedway especially from Burrard to Maple where there are only four-way stops which the drivers do not adhere to. You take your life in your hands trying to cross the street. Also, with parking now allowed on both sides of 1st Ave. - it is difficult to see the speeding cars advancing as you have to cross the street between the parked cars.
- Speed bumps are needed along W. 3rd from Burrard to Vine. No left turns at all hours from Burrard onto 2nd, 3rd, 1st or York. Far too busy traffic wise on Arbutus and 3rd. No one obeys 4-way stop. Someone will get injured or killed sooner or later.
- I am pleased with the measures that have been taken and have found them to be effective. One intersection which should be addressed is Cypress and York (Henry Hudson School). The traffic is still, quite hectic even with the verge on York 4-way stop sign?
- When I cycle to work in Richmond. If you make the bulges on Cypress permanent - you might as well until next year since Cypress is to be dug up for sewage or water or earth quake preparation - starting in October 2001 (please check).
- The constriction of traffic on 1st Ave (my most frequent route) due to parking on both sides of the street can be a real problem. I would challenge the right-of-way.
- The traffic calming devices appear to work quite well, however, I'm surprised by the large number of drivers who have a difficult time negotiating them.
- The change in traffic pattern has helped enormously. It is definitely quieter. The parking change has stopped through traffic of trucks on 3rd Ave. for which I am grateful!
- Make Cypress Street safe for children.
- More restrictions on bike paths.
- Please put a bulge on the southeast corner of 1st Ave. at Maple because there are so many accidents and people fighting in the street outside my apartment, yelling, screaming, horns honking because the traffic bottle necks in the middle of the avenue, or allow no parking in the south middle of the avenue, or a speed bump. I hope something will be done to traffic flow on 1st Ave as well. The traffic circle at west end of block is not enough.
- Could we also have a full time left turn arrow light signal for cars traveling north and south on Burrard to turn onto 4th Ave.
- As to left turns. Turn lights are always welcome.
- I sure noticed the reduced traffic on 2nd Ave. Thank you for all your support.
- I went and checked out the left turn restrictions at 2nd and 3rd and found that they worked very well - should be continued.
- I have never seen any enforcement of this restriction.
- I think there should be longer left turn restrictions on Burrard. As well as, left turn restrictions on 4th Avenue.
- I agree with left turn restrictions at peak times at non-light controlled intersections. These restrictions should lead to less north/south congestion and reduce risk to motorists.
- We need more of these - at Maple and Cornwall for example.
- Certainly I favour left-turn restrictions at 2nd and 3rd; in fact, I'd like to see an effective traffic median down Burrard from 4th to 1st or even Cornwall. For a pedestrian, it's near-suicidal to walk down the west side of Burrard, the left-turners come from behind in sweeping turns and usually don't see the pedestrians crossing the side streets until they're practically at our heels.

COMMENTS OF THOSE NOT SUPPORTING (NO) THE LEFT TURN RESTRICTIONS

- Left turn restriction have created a mass of turning vehicles at W. 1st Ave. It is causing a traffic jam. Put it back to the way it was. It's counter-productive.
- when I drive home from work. I usually turn at 5th ro 6th to get to Cypress so that I can actually reach home without waiting in a long lineup at 1st Ave (where the lights are).
- I live on W. 2nd and it is not convenient to not turn left during rush hour. Local residents should be exempt. Bicycle bulges are causing congestion and causing confusion when turning into the lanes. We desperately need a 4-way stop (or traffic circle) at W. 2nd and Maple St. Vehicles and especially taxis drive way too fast past this intersection because of the hill on Maple St. and 2 blocks to go without a stop sign. Traffic circles make it difficult for pedestrians to cross.
- Driving and parking in my neighbourhood has already gotten too narrow and precarious. There is no need to add to this problem. Left turn restrictions will just make it more difficult to get home. It amazes me that anyone would consider this narrow, stop sign ridden neighbourhood as a short-cut! In over 6 years of living here the only time I have noticed heavy traffic is during the fireworks competition.
- The restrictions on 2nd and 3rd off Burrard have significantly increased traffic taking a left turn at W. 1st. The installed 4-way stop has my corner apartment at W. 1st and Maple in constant traffic noise and pollution from vehicles stopping at the 4-way stop and then starting again. Before the left-hand restrictions, on Burrard and 2nd and 3rd,1st Avenue was heaven and now at times it is hell. Please consider.
- Left turn restriction only make it harder for residents of said area to access our neighbourhood.
- Left turn restrictions at 2nd and 3rd unfairly increase traffic on 1st Avenue. The traffic light at Burrard and 1st, plus the commercial area west of Cypress already place an unreasonable burden on this busy area. The so called bulges at the corner of 1st and Cypress have not helped. The area west of Cypress on 1st is a residential area and it is unfair to solve the traffic problem of other streets at our expense.
- I used to be able to turn onto 3rd at Burrard when coming home from work ( I live at 3rd and Arbutus). Since the turn restrictions have gone in, this isn't possible so (turn at 5th or 6th and drive thru someone else's neighbourhood to get home. But if there was a turn signal on Burrard at 4th (for north-to-east movements) I would turn there! Why bother putting in a turning lane without a signal... you only make the mistake of trying to turn there once.
- The restrictions on 2nd and 3rd, forces cars to turn at 1st and more trough traffic on 1st Ave. The restriction should also apply to 1st Ave. and left turn signal added to 4th Ave. to Burrard. This would force traffic to turn left off Burrard at 4th Ave. or Cornwall.
- The best way to turn left into the neighbourhood from Burrard is to turn left onto 3rd Ave. or 2nd Ave. when the light is red at 1st Ave. Why remove that relief of left turn congestion.
- Left hand turns at 2nd & 3rd were useful in circumventing traffic from all going down first. Another ridiculous idea by someone who doesn't use this part of town.
- The left turn restrictions make it difficult for me to get onto 3rd as I live between Burrard & Cypress. It also took me 10 minutes to head south on Cypress from 1st Avenue, due to the yielding to north bound traffic at rush hour.
- During AM commuting, the left-turn restrictions encourage traffic to use 1st Ave. Honking horns, speeding cars and trucks, idling cars (often double-parked while drivers get coffee at Bread Garden), idling trucks (often double-parked) makingdeliveries is creating chaos along the 1800 block 1st Ave. The trucks are not using the commercial lanes (because the are often blocked by non-commercial vehicles). Many j-walking pedestrians are being honked at by speeding vehicles,that don't stop at the 4-way stop intersection. Others honk their horns to hurry their passengers lined up in the coffee shops. There is a Big Danger to pedestrians as there is no speed restriction signs. Many vehicles believe they can drive any speed they want. I recommend a Speed Restriction of 30kmh, with at least 4 signs (2 each way) posted. Police radar enforcement is required and tickets must be issued to offenders. Bylaw enforcement officers must patrol the commercial lanes and call for tow trucks to remove parked non-commercial vehicles. Towing works as a deterrent, by-law tickets don't. Signs restricting commercial truck traffic from the street are required, as the lanes are reserved for this.
- During AM commuting, the left turn restrictions encourage auto traffic to use 1st Avenue to access Burrard Street Bridge. Honking horns, speeding cars/trucks (big danger to pedestrians), idling cars - sometimes double parked while drivers get coffee at Bread Garden, idling - double parked delivery trucks (not using lane). Many pedestrians j-walk with near misses from speeding vehicles. Should be 30 kph speed restriction, no truck traffic. Tow non-commercial vehicles parked in lanes. Increased signage. By-law officers concerned with meter parking, not lane parking.

COMMENTS OF THOSE NEUTRAL ABOUT THE LEFT TURN RESTRICTIONS

- Left turn on 1st should be restricted, as people can turn on Cornwall.
- The left turn restrictions wouldn't be so bad if the advanced green at Burrard & 1st would work during those hours.