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In the Fall of 2002, 39,000 questionnaires were sent out
to all Saanich residents. All responses were reviewed and
analyzed and 17,587 road safety concerns were identified
and recorded.
Driver Behaviour Top Traffic Concern
Of those 17,587 road safety concerns identified, 47% (8,236)
were related to driver behaviour. This includes speeding,
aggressive driving, unsafe lane changes and general driving
behaviour. Another 2,055 (12%) identified cyclist and pedestrian
behaviour as an issue.
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Locations and Intersections Perceived
as "Unsafe"
The results have also identified locations
and intersections that are perceived by the community
as unsafe whether it is because of driver behaviour or infrastructure
eg. sidewalks, intersection design, road maintenance, sight
distances.
The intersection identified as having the highest number
of concerns is Cedar Hill Cross and Richmond Road. This
intersection had already been identified by Saanich Engineering
for improvement with the installation of a roundabout. Colin
Doyle, Director of Engineering, District of Saanich says,
"The results of the survey have confirmed the need
for improvement and assisted in supporting our plans to
improve the intersection. Knowing the community’s
concerns is of benefit to all especially when planning and
budgeting for future projects."
Survey Results Help Prioritize Budget
No decisions have yet been made on particular areas for other
infrastructure improvements. The results of the survey
will assist in prioritizing these areas but will depend
on the normal process of community consultation, capital
budget planning and Council approval. However, the District
has already responded to certain concerns expressed in
the questionnaires. All sight distance or overgrown vegetation
issues are being inspected and dealt with if and when necessary.
Speed Watch, a speed awareness program, will soon be operational
at locations indicated by the respondents as high speed
areas. Specific issues dealing with sidewalk or road maintenance
are also being addressed.
Cycling and Pedestrian Concerns
The results overwhelmingly indicate the need to increase the
awareness of safe driving/ bike and pedestrian practices
in Saanich. This is an area that will receive a great deal
of attention from the Safer City team. Mike Copp , Sergeant
of the Traffic Safety Unit – Saanich Police Department
says, " The goal of the Traffic section is to reduce
serious crashes through enforcement and education. It is
our sincere hope that we can get people to understand why
they have to change their driving behaviour and the importance
of being considerate and respectful of each other and all
road users. By taking responsibility for their own behaviour
on the roads residents can contribute towards making Saanich
a Safer City"
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