The city holds a final education session at the Redwood Avenue and Edward Street roundabout hours before it opens to the public.
The event took place Friday afternoon, featuring videos that showed people how to travel the roundabout safely whether it be via car, bike, or on foot.
You were also able to drive through the roundabout if you were still uneasy about the process or just wanted to try it out.
Pedestrians test walkway (STAFF PHOTO)
Project Engineer Matthew Miedema explains why giving the public this opportunity is so important.
“It gives people one final shot to learn how to drive, how to walk, or how to cycle through the roundabout,” says Miedema. “It gives them a feel while it is still closed in a controlled environment, with city staff giving tips, making sure people do the right maneuvers, and driving safely.”
The initial information and education session was held in September, and saw a steady turnout of individuals looking to understand the roundabout better.
The project has been somewhat controversial with many stressing the merit, while others feel it will make the intersection more dangerous.
“That’s the biggest thing, a lot of people say they love roundabouts and feel they work very well but they fear that Thunder Bay drivers don’t know how to drive them,” says Miedema. “That’s why we’re making such a big effort to have these educational days to help drivers who maybe aren’t comfortable with it.”
The Project Manager goes on to say that there are other roundabout projects currently being considered by the city.
“There are a couple roundabouts being planned in the background,” explains Miedema. “There’s one in the Parkdale Porcupine area, a local community there, and another one at Algoma Gibson by Boulevard Lake. There are no other big intersections planned, I’d say this right now is the biggest one that has been identified in prior studies.”
If the other projects go through, this city will consider the Redwood Avenue-Edward Street roundabout’s benefits, along with what can be improved on.
The roundabout will officially be open to the public Sept. 25, though the city is asking you to be aware there are construction projects still occurring in the area.
City shows videos on how to maneuver roundabout (STAFF PHOTO)
