In partnership with the District of Metchosin, this safety improvement involves the installation of solar-powered pedestrian- and cyclist-activated crossing signs at a location where the Galloping Goose Trail (a shared use path) crosses a curved and high-volume section of Happy Valley Road where driver sight lines are compromised.

The District of Metchosin Road Safety Project supports recommendations provided by Urban Systems – a transportation consultant retained by the District – to develop a strategic plan for the District focused on improving road safety. This plan will initiate a long-term focus to promote, design and reflect the goal of building a safe and active transportation network.

Within this context, this specific project involves the installation of solar-activated pedestrian crossing signs at a critical location where a mixed-use path (Galloping Goose Trail) crosses Happy Valley Road in the Metchosin community of Greater Victoria. The project also involves new pedestrian pavement markings to more vividly communicate to drivers the existence of the crossing. This is critical as the crossing is utilized by people who walk, roll, run, cycle, use mobility devices, push strollers and travel as equestrians. However, the crossing is at a major artery that connects drivers to and from rapidly growing adjacent areas. And blind corners, combined with high vehicle speeds due in part to a lack of any traffic calming devices for over five kilometers in each direction, creates a high-risk situation for vulnerable road users trying to cross this artery.

Since the advent of the COVID-19 restrictions, Metchosin has witnessed a substantial increase in the use of its trails including the Galloping Goose Trail. Regardless, the District believes that its residents deserve a safe place to age, exercise and move about.