Residents Push to Retain Four-Way Stop in Stittsville Neighborhood

Residents of a newly developed neighborhood in Stittsville, Ontario, are advocating for the retention of a critical four-way stop at the intersection of Derreen Avenue and Culdaff Road. This stop is the only controlled crossing in the area and plays a vital role in ensuring pedestrian safety. As of August 15, 2023, traffic on Derreen Avenue is set to resume without stops, raising concerns among local families.

Tyler Sommers, a resident for over three years, emphasized the significance of this intersection, stating, “It’s the main intersection in and out of the community. It’s fairly busy and very active.” The City of Ottawa, having taken over responsibilities from the community developer in June, is currently reassessing traffic control options at the intersection, according to Heidi Cousineau, the city’s manager of traffic, safety and mobility.

Cousineau noted that the intersection is currently functioning as a four-way stop during a standard signage adjustment warning period. She acknowledged the community’s concerns and assured residents that the city is actively exploring permanent solutions.

Safety is a primary concern for many, particularly for families with children. Devesh Wadhwa, who has lived in the area for about a year and has a four-year-old son, described the intersection’s dangers. He remarked that drivers often accelerate as they exit the nearby roundabout, unaware they are entering a residential area. “I think it’s a safety hazard,” Wadhwa said, expressing anxiety for his family’s safety while walking in the neighborhood.

Both Wadhwa and Sommers have communicated their concerns to local councillor Glen Gower, who shares their views. Gower stated, “They want a safe way for people to cross the street… without a four-way stop, it’s not as safe, and I agree with that.” He highlighted the intersection’s role as a school bus drop-off area, underscoring the need for enhanced safety measures for the community’s most vulnerable members.

The city is beginning the process of reinstating the stop signs permanently, with Gower requesting to expedite the review. This process can take between three to six months, depending on various factors, such as upgrades to sidewalks to meet city accessibility standards.

“We’re going to keep pushing for a safe solution for people who are just trying to cross the road,” Gower added. The current design of the intersection can accommodate additional traffic controls, which could include the reinstatement of the four-way stop.

For residents like Celeste Pinkney, who moved to the area in April with two young children, road safety is a paramount concern. Having witnessed two recent collisions involving children on bicycles, she expressed her alarm over the potential hazards posed by the removal of the stop signs. “If it wasn’t because of my kids, I probably wouldn’t care as much,” Pinkney said. “I’m more worried because we are always out on walks, and my daughter likes running fast.”

Sommers hopes that the four-way stop will be reinstated by the time his three-year-old son begins school, stressing, “The main concern for me is that there’s nowhere to cross.”

As discussions continue, the residents remain vigilant, advocating for a solution that prioritizes pedestrian safety in their community.