Parking bans part of Regina snow route pilot project

The City of Regina is introducing a new snow route pilot project that will include parking bans on three busy streets this winter.

The goal is to improve traffic flow after a storm by allowing crews to put up 24-hour parking bans along designated streets to get them clear of snow.

This winter the city will test three new routes along five kilometre sections of Victoria Avenue, Winnipeg Street and College Avenue.

“This pilot project will help make winter operations safer and more efficient,” said Mayor Michael Fougere in a release. “Snow routes are used to improve traffic flow along the busiest roadways and allow for quicker and more consistent snow clearing, ultimately, reducing costs.”

The pilot project includes things like signs being installed along the route. The signs will be blue with a white snowflake on them.

The project will ensure that all snow routes will be declared a minimum of eight hours before the 24-hour parking ban is put in place and will be issued at 3 p.m. the day before. The parking ban will start at 6 a.m. the day the route will be cleared.

“With no vehicles in the parking lane, a more thorough snow clearing from curb-to-curb can be achieved, improving overall traffic flow,” explained Norman Kyle, Director of Roadways & Transportation, in a release.

“If the results of this pilot are positive, it will help determine if, and where, we implement routes in the future. Neighbourhood residents, businesses and local drivers will also be asked to provide feedback on the impact of the pilot project from their perspective.”

People can also sign-up for notifications about snow routes through the city’s website or through email, Facebook or Twitter.

The city will be hosting an information session on Oct. 5 where everyone can learn the details of the pilot project. The session will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at St. Mary’s Hall on Winnipeg Street. Child care will be provided for parents who want to come.