Email from David Kury regarding recommendation to amend Covenant CA8718173

Elena Bolster

Subject: FW: Comment on the recommendation to amend the Covenant CA8718173 For Erskine Lane / Watkiss Way.

From: David Kury
Sent: Monday, October 16, 2023 1:01 AM
To: Info Address info@viewroyal.ca
Subject: Comment on the recommendation to amend the Covenant CA8718173 For Erskine Lane / Watkiss Way.

I would like to comment on the Report Dated October 11th from the Director of Engineering & Senior Planner, including the recommendation to amend the Covenant CA8718173 for Erskine Lane / Watkiss Way Roundabout.

1. I attended the September 21st Open house hosted by Westurban developments and noted that the roundabout design included for enlarged landscaping and pathways on all sides of the roundabout, which was the major contribution to the additional land requirements. I did not feel that Westurban sufficiently addressed why these large landscape areas and sidewalks were necessary, or could not be reduced.
2. In reviewing the Engineering & Senior Planners report, I noted that under Sustainability / Climate change impacts, they indicate that they believe there is no significant sustainability or climate change impacts in either scenario. I believe this paragraph places an oversight in the carbon impact of vehicles idling at the intersection waiting for red-lights in contrast to the improved mobility of a roundabout. Through my review of this proposal to amend Covenant CA8718173 I noted the Canadian Roundabout Design Guide makes specific reference to the increased carbon impact of signalized intersections over roundabouts.

Ultimately I understand that it would be rare for council to go against the recommendation of the Director of Engineering & Senior Planner, and the Director of Engineering & Senior planners may be satisfied that the roundabout is not the right solution in this context. I would then ask that if a signalized intersection is to replace the current roundabout included within Covenant CA8718173 that the following be considered to be included as requirements for the signalized intersection under the Covenant:

a. In-ground loops on all four sides of the intersection to reduce the time cars are left idling at the intersection unnecessarily, and these loops are used to adjust timing at the light when appropriate. This will help mitigate the carbon impacts of the signalized intersection, and improve the overall functionality. Given the reduction in scope this should be feasible and cost-effective to implement. b. Additional Traffic calming measures be included at the intersection, including speed table(s) and/or Material Changes. This will help reduce the speed of cars, which will in turn reduce accidents and improve the speed compliance approaching the nearby elementary school intersection.

Thank you for your consideration.

David Kury
102 Stoneridge Close