The City of Powell River plans to install a rapid rectangular flashing beacon at a crosswalk to improve pedestrian and other vulnerable road user safety in the community, and encourage more active transportation.

The proposed installation of Rapid Rectangular Flashing Beacons (RRFB) on Manson Avenue will provide a safe pedestrian crossing to Edgehill Elementary school. Manson Avenue is a wide busy arterial road where drivers travel fast. The crosswalks used to have a crossing guard due to safety concerns, but the volunteer is no longer with the school. To date, Edgehill Elementary could not secure a crossing guard but would like a more permanent solution.

Supplementing a crosswalk with a RRFB will increased safety and yield vehicle rates. Some of the expected outcomes for this project are a dramatic increase in vehicle yield rates and improved pedestrian safety on this busy street. This installation will fit well within the ongoing efforts to make the community more pedestrian and bicycle friendly as per the strategic direction set by the City Council. We hope that this project will result in more future collaboration between community groups, the school district, other community organizations, and the City.

Photo source: Aaron Hines, Flickr (2017). Photo is shown for illustration purposes only and may not be an accurate representation of the project.