After a year-long trial run, the four-way stop at Bay and Farwell isn't going anywhere.
John Howes, engineering technician with the City of Trail, says the test run for the intersection was a success and crews are working to install elements to make the traffic flow pattern permanent.
“The four-way stop...was set up last year in order to monitor the results and observe driver compliance,” he said adding that the change from traffic lights to stop signs improved safety.
“Although not visually attractive, controlling the intersection with an arrangement of stop signs and concrete barriers was determined to be successful.”
Now that the test run is complete, work started this week to install the permanent fixtures to create a 24/7 all-way stop.
“The yellow barriers are to be replaced this year with street scape features, like permanent signage, bollards, concrete planters and benches,” said Howes, adding that all the work will be done in time for Silver City Days from May 6 to 10. “The enhancements are going to be consistent with the Victoria Street amenities and planting.”
Howes says the four-way stop is an improvement on the system of red-yellow-green traffic lights that were installed at the intersection previously.
“The primary benefit of the four-way stop is to improve the level of service (at the intersection),” he said.
“Overall, vehicle and pedestrian delays are reduced at the intersection with the conversion to a four-way stop control. Pedestrians and vehicles must share the roadways.”
Along with the work happening at Bay and Farwell, crews are currently working on big changes in the Trail Memorial Centre parking lot ahead of the Silver CIty Days celebrations.
“The layout was investigated for opportunities to improve vehicle circulation and visibility, reduce vehicle and pedestrian conflicts and improve vehicle access,” he said. “Modifications to the parking configuration are underway.”