Port Moody Launches Urgent Traffic-Calming Pilot for Student Safety

UPDATE: Port Moody has just launched a critical traffic-calming pilot project aimed at enhancing student safety along Upper Noons Creek Drive. On September 16, city council voted unanimously to allocate $140,000 for this one-year initiative designed to address long-standing safety concerns near Mountain Meadows Elementary.

The decision comes amid rising worries from residents about speeding vehicles and hazardous conditions, particularly during school drop-off times. Mayor Meghan Lahti emphasized the urgency of the project, stating, “I think this is an important part of safety in this area, especially as it’s adjacent to an elementary school.”

Upper Noons Creek Drive, a steep collector road, sees thousands of vehicles daily, raising alarms among parents and local residents. Despite a posted speed limit of 30 kilometers per hour, a staggering 85 percent of the approximately 3,250 daily drivers exceed this limit, with many speeding past the school at 40 kilometers per hour.

With this pilot, Port Moody aims to implement a range of measures, including pedestrian-activated flashing beacons, lane narrowings, and speed-reader boards. The majority of the budget—nearly $45,000—will be spent on the flashing beacons, which are crucial for alerting drivers to the presence of children crossing the road.

Councillor Diana Dilworth, a long-time resident, highlighted the neighborhood’s struggles with increased traffic following the expansion of access points to the area. “Noons Creek never used to go through to anywhere, it just stopped,” she noted, emphasizing the need for immediate action to improve safety.

Survey results from last fall indicated significant concern among residents, with over 127 responses highlighting the urgency of the situation. Councillor Callan Morrison acknowledged the passionate community engagement, noting that the pilot is funded through unspent allocations from previous traffic calming budgets.

As construction begins, which is expected to cost $100,000 plus a 40 percent contingency, the council is committed to monitoring the outcomes. After one year, officials will report back with data on traffic patterns and community feedback, ensuring that the project’s effectiveness is evaluated thoroughly.

This pilot project marks a significant step forward in addressing safety concerns in Port Moody, especially for families in the area. The council aims to create a safer environment for students and residents alike, making it clear that the community’s voices have been heard.

As this situation develops, residents are encouraged to stay informed and engage with city officials regarding any concerns or suggestions related to the project. The focus remains on continuous improvement to ensure the safety of children commuting to school.