Slowing the pace across Canada
Nov
10
Written by:
10/11/2010 10:28 AM
In July we asked members of communities from across Canada to apply for a FedEx grant to start a Pace Car program in their neighbourhood. We are pleased to announce that 10 neighbourhoods in Canada have agreed to slow down and make the streets a little safer for all of us, pedestrians, cyclists and drivers alike.
So here’s a virtual high-five to all the drivers participating in the newly instituted Pace Car programs in: Branch (Newfoundland), Fort Frances (Ontario), High Level (Alberta) La Sarre (Québec), North Vancouver (B.C.), Ottawa (Ontario), Portage la Prairie (Manitoba), Red Deer County (Alberta), Sault Ste. Marie (Ontario) and Vancouver (B.C.).
Research shows that for each 1.6 km reduction in average speed, collision frequency is reduced by five per cent.
The Pace Car program helps stop speeding on neighbourhood streets by getting drivers to drive the limit. It's simple - drivers in the community sign the Pace Car pledge, and then proudly display the official Pace Car emblems on their cars. By driving within the speed limit, cars become "mobile speed bumps," slowing down the traffic behind them. Drivers also agree to be more aware of, and courteous to other road users, especially pedestrians and cyclists. Many Pace Cars can effectively calm traffic throughout a neighbourhood. The more people who participate, the better it works!
If you have a story about how the Pace Car program has improved your community, we would love to hear from you!
Happy trails!
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