September 29, 1998

To:Toronto Community Council

From:Andrew Koropeski, Director, Transportation Services District 1

Subject:Bedford Road and Lowther Avenue - Installation of all-way "Stop" sign control. (Midtown)

Purpose:

To replace the existing pedestrian crossover with an all-way "Stop" sign control at the intersection of Bedford Road and Lowther Avenue.

Funding Sources, Financial Implications and Impact Statement:

Not applicable.

Recommendations:

(1)That the existing pedestrian crossover located on Bedford Road at the south side of its intersection with Lowther Avenue be removed;

(2)That "Stop" signs be installed for northbound and southbound traffic on Bedford Road at Lowther Avenue; and

(3)That the appropriate City Officials be requested to take whatever action is necessary to give effect to the foregoing, including the introduction in Council of any Bills that are required.

Comments:

In consultation with Midtown Councillors John Adams and Ila Bossons, an investigation was conducted to examine traffic operations at the intersection of Bedford Road and Lowther Avenue.

Lowther Avenue operates one-way westbound with a "Stop" sign posted for westbound traffic at Bedford Road. A pedestrian crossover is operating across Bedford Road at the south side of its intersection with Lowther Avenue. A northbound bicycle lane is in operation on the east side of Bedford Road in the vicinity of Lowther Avenue.

A review of the Toronto Police Service accident records for the intersection of Bedford Road and Lowther Avenue revealed that three collisions that may have been prevented by the presence of an all-way "Stop" sign control, were reported at this location from March 17, 1994 to March 17, 1997.

A site inspection has revealed that the existing roadway alignment within the intersection creates a minor visibility problem which reduces advanced sight lines for motorists.

Considering the foregoing and having evaluated the intersection of Bedford Road and Lowther Avenue against the technical criteria governing the installation of a "Stop" sign which encompass such factors as right-of-way conflicts, vehicular and pedestrian usage of the intersection, physical and geometric configurations, surrounding area traffic controls and safety experience, it has been concluded that this intersection satisfies the operational safety elements for the installation of an all-way "Stop" sign control.

This implementation will necessitate the removal of the existing pedestrian crossover. Further, to enhance safety at this intersection and in keeping with a majority of the intersections in this area, it is recommended that either an overhead or pole-mounted flashing red beacons be installed. The estimated cost of this work is in the order of $3,000.00, funds for which are available in the 1998 Operating Budget.

Contact Name and Telephone Number:

Tom McCulloch,

Traffic Investigator, Midtown 392-7771

Director

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