The signs would be similar to those in the City of Grande Prairie, like near Swanavon School and along 100 Avenue across Muskoseepi Park (Photo: Shaun Penner / EverythingGP staff)

By Shaun Penner

Traffic Calming Data

County purchasing digital speed signs to help gather data for traffic calming decisions

Aug 4, 2021 | 6:49 PM

County of Grande Prairie Council has approved the purchase of two new digital speed signs, which will be used to help Public Works staff determine the best traffic calming measures for various parts of the County.

Council approved an additional $10,000 for the Public Works Operating Sign budget on July 26 to purchase the signage, which display how fast a vehicle is travelling in a designated area.

Reeve Leanne Beaupre says the signs will be used for two different reasons.

“Moving forward with these digital flashing signs is an education program,” said Beaupre, referring to the need to remind speeders to slow down when they are speeding.

“But the second is to collect the data about how fast vehicle(s) went by the sign, and what kind of a vehicle it was.”

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The signs, Beaupre says, are able to record the time, speed and style of vehicle, which will be compiled for Public Works staff to determine the best traffic calming measures for a given region.

The discussion about traffic calming measures stemmed from a request from residents of a subdivision within the County, who were hoping to see the speed limit reduced in their neighbourhood.

Before the County decides whether to reduce the speed limit there, or in other areas of the County, Beaupre says they first need to get a clear picture about what is needed in a given area.

“We have to take that information, and really break it down and make sure that… what we provide to those different (areas), whether it’s a hamlet or a subdivision, the right type of traffic calming device for them.”

Beaupre adds while the data will be a great asset to Public Works, she says the signage will also be helpful for Enforcement Services.

“To see where there are habitual speeding habits happening,” said Beaupre. “It then gives them an opportunity to plan their routes.”