A new pilot program will see streets closed to cars in front of three Vancouver schools during busy periods to promote safety and active transportation.
Starting today (and running until May 7) streets in front of Hastings Elementary, Lord Roberts Elementary and Van Horne Elementary will be closed between 30 and 45 minutes twice a day during the morning arrival and afternoon departure of students.
The pilot project is called 'School Streets,' according to the City of Vancouver, and aims to improve safety at schools. The city cites a reduction in carbon pollution as another reason.
“Children are one of our most vulnerable road users and it’s crucial they have safe public spaces for physical activity - like the block outside their school,” says Mayor Kennedy Stewart in a press release.
The idea isn't original to Vancouver; the city notes there have been positive results from a similar implementation in the United Kingdom.
At Van Horne Elementary the majority of parents were in favour of the project according to the release.
The times and locations of the street closures are as follows:
Hastings Elementary:
- Street closure to motor vehicles: Franklin Street between Penticton Street and Slocan Street
- Time in effect: 8:40 a.m. to 9:10 a.m. and 2:40 p.m. to 3:10 p.m.
Lord Roberts Elementary:
- Street closure to motor vehicles: Comox Street between Bidwell Street and Cardero Street
- Time in effect: 8:30 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Van Horne Elementary:
- Street closure to motor vehicles: 43rd Ave between Manitoba St and Ontario St
- Time in effect: 8:40 a.m. to 9:10 a.m. and 2:40 p.m. to 3:10 p.m.
The streets will remain open to pedestrians and cyclists during these times.
