Speed limit blamed for idling bridge
Some Saskatoon city councillors say the speed limits connecting to the Chief Mistawasis Bridge could be deterring motorists from using the new span.
City council’s transportation committee voted unanimously Monday to study the speeds along the roadway leading to the bridge, as well as the number of traffic infractions and wildlife collisions.
In October 2018, to protect wildlife, council voted to leave the speed limit at 50 kilometres per hour on the part of the extension of Mcormond Road that travels through the ecologically delicate Northeast Swale.
A city report shows that about 9,900 vehicles a day use the bridge, far lower than the 14,600 to 21,700 expected on opening day.
“I hear all the time from people refusing to use the bridge because of the speed limit,” Coun. Randy Donauer said.
“It’s frustrating. People understand why we did it.”
The Mcormond speed limit prior to the Northeast Swale is 60 km/h and then 70 km/h as motorists approach the bridge.
Coun. Bev Dubois concurred with Donauer and Coun. Zach Jeffries said he understands motorists’ frustration, having driven the route himself.
“All I’ve got to say is that there’s got to be a better way for us to do that,” Jeffries said.
Jeffries suggested that one day when the area around Mcormond is developed, the speed limit could be lowered to 50 km/h as happened with Clarence Avenue and Eighth Street.
Donauer also pointed out the bridge is serving as a “relief valve” for the Circle Drive North Bridge, the city’s busiest.
Traffic declined on the Circle Drive North Bridge by 9,800 a day, the report says.
City hall is frequently criticized for failing to plan ahead, Donauer added, pointing out the area along Mcormond will one day be full developed with neighbourhoods.
“(City hall) administration will look like geniuses a generation from now,” Donauer said.
Coun. Sarina Gersher said she is already aware of collisions along the roadway involving both large and small wildlife.