Proposed west end subdivision triggers safety concerns

There’s some backlash over a proposed commercial subdivision in the west end.

The eight-lot proposal would be off Jaguar Road, close to Algonquin Boulevard and residents in the area are concerned over how safe it would be traffic-wise.

Andre Goulet—a resident on Jaguar—says he takes issue with the intersection of Algonquin-Jaguar, as it’s an awkward turn and could cause safety problems when more traffic comes to the area.

“We’re going to have more transports, we’re going to have more delivery trucks, more employees going in there,” he said, “So very soon, we’re going to have problems with that intersection.”

Linda Goulet, another resident, took issue with the “everyday occurence” of speeders in the two-laned area of Algonquin, notably transports.

“When you want to merge onto Jaguar, that traffic’s not stopping behind you, it’s just going past you,” she said.

“I’ve had a few close calls.”

Linda mentions that some even take the shoulder of the road illegally to get by those trying to turn onto Jaguar. She notes it’s a miracle there haven’t been more collisions there.

The two Goulet’s made mention of a petition making the rounds, which is asking council to consider adding traffic lights and dedicated merging lanes at the intersection for safety reasons.

As of Monday night, over 40 people have signed it, including several businesses in the area.

As well, city councillor Andrew Marks requested a collision count, which Police Chief John Gauthier will look into.

All the concerns will then be added into a report on the matter, to be released at a future date.