12-11-2015, 11:52 AM
(12-11-2015, 10:58 AM)ookpik Wrote: That's a very big, expensive and likely highly contentious issue. Even if you could make a good case, it would take many years to get approval, let alone carry out the implementation. And recall that those streets were originally converted from 2-way to 1-way some decades ago in anticipation of increasing traffic volumes. All I can say is, "Good luck with that."
I think contentious is probably true, but converting it to two-way would not be particularly big or expensive. A few new traffic signals would be required, which would be costly, but the streets would not need to be closed for weeks or months for disruptive construction.
It might be possible to get people on board with it, though. As mentioned, Charles and Duke were reverted to two-way, and I think most people would view that as very positive. Certainly downtown Kitchener has not been snarled by traffic as a result.
SammyOES' idea is probably the most realistic middle-ground. If changing these streets back to two-way is unlikely, a lane should be set aside for bicycles and improved walking infrastructure.