Vancouver city council is set to discuss a proposal on Wednesday aimed at improving safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers at intersections.
Councilor Lucy Maloney has put forward a motion to restrict right turns for drivers at select red lights in Vancouver. The proposal instructs city staff to identify intersections where implementing a leading pedestrian interval or allowing right turns could conflict with bike lanes, multiuse paths, or heavy pedestrian and cyclist traffic without a current right-on-red restriction.
Maloney believes this change is crucial for enhancing safety for all road users. She emphasizes the need to prevent conflicts between drivers making right turns and pedestrians crossing ahead.
The councilor notes that while the proposal may impact a portion of Vancouver’s intersections, it is not a citywide ban. She highlights successful implementations of similar restrictions in cities like Montreal, New York City, and Washington, D.C., which have significantly reduced vehicle conflicts and improved pedestrian safety.
Referencing data from a 2015 Vancouver study, Maloney points out that a significant number of cyclist-driver collisions occur during right turns. She also highlights the potential cost savings for law enforcement if fatal crashes are reduced.
The motion will be discussed at a meeting on city finance and services, starting at 9:30 a.m., where its potential impact on improving road safety will be evaluated.