THUNDER BAY — The City of Thunder Bay's Engineering Division is taking a closer look at traffic control requirements in the area of a proposed roundabout on Victoria Avenue.
Plans for the $350,000 project were announced in December.
City staff said a roundabout at Victoria and Ford Street would negate the need for the existing traffic signals at Victoria and Lillie Street.
The plan also includes converting Lillie between Victoria and Walnut Street to a one-way northbound route.
Officials say vehicle and pedestrian volumes identified in previous studies showed that traffic signals are not warranted at Victoria and Lillie, but are required to reduce delays for Thunder Bay Transit buses and for vehicles turning left from Lillie onto Victoria.
Starting on Tuesday, Feb. 26, the signals will be deactivated for a 30-day period while a new study is conducted. Stop signs will be installed at the north and south approaches to Victoria, and through traffic on Victoria will be free-flowing.
"During this study, the City will also be assessing community traffic concerns," said Project Engineer Matthew Miedema.
He said staff will collect data on traffic volumes, collisions, speeds, delays, congestion and pedestrian crossings.
"Once the study is completed, the findings and recommendations to manage traffic and pedestrian activity in this area for the long-term, considering both safety and efficiency, will be presented to city council in May," Miedema said.
