Commission discusses speed humps and traffic calming near parks; staff advises petition route

Commissioners and residents discussed adding speed humps, flashing lights or other traffic-calming measures on streets adjacent to parks to slow motorists and improve safety for pedestrians and park users.

A commissioner raised the issue after receiving constituent complaints about high speeds on Belmont Street and near other parks; the presenter said the concern stems from children and families walking to parks and from drivers treating some streets as fast thoroughfares. Commissioners noted existing work by Transportation & Mobility and encouraged petitioners to file requests with the city’s petition/clerk process or to work with their district councillor; staff said Transportation & Mobility implements speed humps and related design elements and that the department is examining permanent designs that could be applied in park-adjacent locations such as Green Hill.

One commissioner said he has reviewed the Transportation & Mobility pilot and suggested the commission sign letters or support petitions; staff offered to draft a letter that commissioners could sign. Staff said some traffic-calming measures are being considered as budget items for fiscal 2027 and that design and implementation would also rely on DPW and Transportation & Mobility processes.

Ending: Staff will support petitioners’ requests, help coordinate with Transportation & Mobility and evaluate potential budgetary inclusion for fiscal 2027. Commissioners recommended petitioners attend the Traffic and Parking committee as a next practical step.