The primary objective of this project is to increase visibility as well as reduce the risk of pedestrian crashes at the drop-off/pickup location for Eagleview Elementary School children and the general public. Currently the primary crosswalk leading children onto school property has extremely poor visibility during drop-off and pickup times due to its proximity to a heavily congested and poorly marked cul-de-sac. This project combines student/public education, increased cul-de-sac signage and road markings, the installation of a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon set as well as, a gravel walkway from the outer parking area to the sidewalk so children do not have to walk on the road itself. The PAC is collaborating with the school, RCMP and the District of Port Hardy to implement these steps.

The student drop off and pickup location at Eagleview Elementary is a heavily congested and poorly laid out area which has seen numerous close calls in regards to pedestrian and vehicle collisions. In particular, the crosswalk location leading to the primary student section of the school is in close proximity to a cul-de-sac turn around which causes driver and pedestrian confusion. With the school being on the entry side of the cul-de-sac, drivers tend to stop at the beginning of the cul-de-sac forcing other drivers to move into the middle of the cul-de-sac to get past them and find a drop off spot. The same is happening as they exit it, which means multiple vehicles are leaving at the same time pulling into the middle and driving through the crosswalk. We need to direct and control the traffic moving around the cul-de-sac in a single file and increase the crosswalk visibility forcing those drivers to stop as pedestrians cross. Increasing pedestrian visibility in this location will not only benefit the school students but also the general public as it is a major walking hub with trails to the community recreation center, tennis courts, skatepark, high school, multiple residential neighborhoods and the Gwa'sala 'Nakwaxda'xw reservation. In fact 50% of the student base at Eagleview Elementary School identify as First Nations individuals.

Photo source: Pexels. Photo is shown for illustration purposes only and may not be an accurate representation of the project.