What is a traffic pilot project?

    A traffic pilot project is where the city makes temporary changes to the configuration of a street, intersection, or area for a defined period of time.

    Why was this pilot project chosen?

    There were 120 collision types in this area between 2011-2017. Collisions on Military Road are almost always a situation where someone runs a red light. These are very dangerous collisions. For a breakdown of types of collisions and locations within the area, check out the map in the Documents Library.


    What is the purpose?

    The purpose of a pilot project depends on the area that is being studied. Generally there are several goals such as improving traffic flow, enhancing pedestrian safety and reducing the number of potential conflict points between vehicles and/or pedestrians. The exact goal will be specific to the project.

    Pilot projects are conducted to test changes at low cost to allow a true evaluation of the project before Council decides whether or not to implement a permanent change.

    How does the City evaluate the project?

    During the trial period the City’s Transportation Engineering group will monitor the area. Observations can include things such as the number of pedestrians, number of cars, speed of cars, and traffic flow patterns. A public survey will be circulated to gather direct feedback from those affected. The observations and public feedback will be combined in an evaluation of the pilot project and presented to City Council to determine if the changes will become a permanent feature of the area.


    How are motorists, pedestrians and residents notified of the changes?

    The City announces the projects in advance via Public Service Announcement that is posted online and circulated to all local media outlets.  A notice is delivered to residents and businesses that are directly impacted in the immediate area of the pilot project. A notice is published in the Telegram, and the City shares the information on various social media channels.  Each project is also listed on the city of St. John’s engage page - engagestjohns.ca

    Will the changes be confusing for visitors or people unfamiliar with the area?

    The changes to the area will be clearly marked using road signs, and other temporary equipment such as rubber curbs, pylons, and mobile concrete barriers. We expect that pilot projects will take some time to get used to. Pilot projects stay in place for at least a couple months to ensure people have enough time to adjust to the change before the evaluation is completed.

    How can I share my feedback with the City?

    There will be some inconvenience to local residents and visitors as some travel routes will be impacted. The general public can share their feedback in the following ways:

    - Contact your Ward Council Representative

    - Each pilot project has its own dedicated Q&A section, ask us a question directly

    - Contact Access St. John's


    What other Traffic pilots are planned for 2018?

    2018 Projects are all listed on the City's website link here