Well it's happening again: Another roundabout installation on the corners of North Park and Cogswell --and Trollope, and Ahern. Looking back on how much smoother the roundabout at North Park and Agri has made to everyone's commutes, this change to the roads around the commons is exciting. It's also ending a two year long planning process on how to improve traffic flow in the North End at two of the most ridiculous intersections known in Atlantic Canada!
This makes me happy in a couple ways, one of which is that this city has performed a study of the area, came up with a solution --albeit a little controversial when first promoted-- and followed-through on their plans! All to often, I find myself gobsmacked at Council's preference to perform study after study without taking the strong leadership role that this city needs: making and following-through on a decision. Though it's been nearly a full election cycle since his departure, I think this lack of decision-making is something identifiable moreso with the Kelly-era --though I've been seeing council make more bold decisions as of late, be they for better or worse.
Although there is speculation now that former mayor Peter Kelley is considering a return to the Mayors seat in the next election. **audible groan**
Speaking of following-through on reports and studies, Dalhousie is getting the Green-Light on installing protected bikeways down the length of University Ave! This little piece of planning is a story akin to the little engine that could. Not only did this project receive rebukes from the Rebecca Cohn crowd, but also the differently-abled crowd and even the Dawgfather himself! Despite taking the beating of a lifetime, it has made it's way to council for approval.
So mark it on your calendars, little ones! Bike Lane vote on Tuesday, May 12th starting sometime after 1:30pm! Head on over to Grand-Parade and sit in on what could be our first protected bike lane in Peninsular Halifax!
Although this in itself is great news, it's slated as a two-year trial at the moment, which means we'll have to use it and promote the hell out of it in order to keep it. Also, with the next municipal election set for next year, I can see this being a small to medium impact election-issue for this district and the Mayoral run. HRM also reserves the right to terminate the trial at any time if it sees fit.
There's a lot on the line, folks! Write in to your Councillor, and/or the Mayor, and/or the Province (they're the ones footing the bulk of the bill along with Dalhousie) when the lines are painted and the bollards are planted, letting them know how much you love this bike-lane and how much you love biking in HRM!
