FAQs
Why aren’t the deep utilities including the water and sewer included in this Project?
The replacement of deep utilities is being considered only where necessary and where conditions warrant it. The existing infrastructure has not yet reached the end of its service life, and generally considered to be in fair condition, so full replacement throughout the entire corridor is not required. All storm sewer catchbasins and leads however, are being replaced to ensure drainage improvements of the roadway remains a major priority and key outcome of the project.
Why aren’t crosswalks proposed on every block?
Pedestrians will be able to cross at any intersecting roadway, and this project will make it easier for them to cross 3rd street with the improved sight lines, and reduced crossing distances. However, ‘marked crosswalks’ will only be installed where higher volume of pedestrians are expected, and necessary to increase the awareness and anticipation of the drivers that pedestrians are likely to cross at these locations.
How many trees are expected to be removed to fit the multi-use path within the right-of-way?
At this stage, no tree removals are planned. The alignment of the Multi-Use Pathway (MUP) has been carefully designed to respect the health of existing trees while maintaining a safe and comfortable space for people walking, rolling, and biking.
Can every crosswalk also have a ‘push button’ flashing light installed?
Rapid Flashing Beacons (RFBs) are installed at select crossing locations where additional safety measures are warranted, such as high pedestrian use, low crossing opportunities, limited visibility, roadway geometry or other safety considerations. It is only recommended to have these where they are warranted, otherwise drivers become desensitized to them if they are misused, thus reducing their effectiveness. Locations are being considered where they may be warranted, which include, but not necessarily limited to, the MUP crossing at 5th Avenue NW, the Division Avenue (Gas King crossing), and the mid-block crossing in front of St. Joseph’s Care Facility.
Will the City be conducting Snow Removal of the Multi-use path in front of my house?
Yes, the City will be removing snow along the multi-use path according to the priority for pathway snow removal in place at the time of the snowfall event.
Will this project be incorporating improvements to the boulevard area specific to the landscaping adjacent to my property? And will the City be extending my existing walkway to connect to the new MUP?
Yes, careful consideration will be made for each location where the boulevard space will be extended or altered to match the existing conditions as most suitable. Connections from existing walkways to the MUP will be constructed where required within the boulevard space.
Why is the road being “narrowed?”
The road is not being “narrowed” so much as being right-sized or optimized to improve safety. The current road is much wider than necessary, which can lead to higher vehicle speeds, reduced attention from drivers, and increased risk for everyone using the road including pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. The updated design maintains on-street parking on both sides while calming traffic and improving visibility. This supports a safer, more livable street environment.
Will I be able to safely navigate the intersections without hitting the curb or entering the oncoming lane of traffic?
Yes. Intersections are being carefully designed to accommodate a range of vehicles, including school buses, garbage trucks, and maintenance vehicles. These designs ensure safe, efficient turning movements for all typical road users. Stay tuned for more information regarding these traffic movements at the 2025 Fall Open House.
What is the purpose of a round-about at the intersection of 3rd Street and 2nd Avenue NE?
A round-about is being explored at this intersection to improve safety, reduce vehicle speeds, and create a more predictable traffic flow. Round-abouts encourage drivers to slow down, which reduces the risk of collisions, and improves safety for pedestrians and cyclists by minimizing conflict points and enhancing visibility. Also by reducing the speed at which vehicles enter the traffic calmed corridor, this in turn will promote slower speeds throughout the entire length of the corridor.
Will I lose any parking adjacent to my residence?
We’re working to minimize any changes to on-street parking as the design progresses. In most cases, features like curb extensions (or “bulb-outs”) are planned within the existing roadway space and won’t significantly affect the overall availability of parking.