Saskatoon city council is set to discuss a road safety review for the College Drive and Wiggins Avenue intersection on Wednesday. The report is a result of the tragic death of Natasha Fox, who was struck by a vehicle while on her way to work in May 2023. Her husband, Tod, has been advocating for changes in the city to prevent similar incidents. He emphasized the importance of the intersection, which is the most biked and second-most-walked intersection in Saskatoon. Tod urged the council to consider the community’s needs and to prioritize safety at this location.
Tod spoke out against city officials, stating that he does not want to tell them how to do their jobs but feels compelled to speak up due to the lack of change. He stressed that the council’s responsibility is to represent and care for the community. He also highlighted the need for active transportation infrastructure that benefits all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. Tod acknowledged that accidents can happen, affecting not only vulnerable road users but also drivers. He emphasized the importance of creating a safe environment for everyone on the road.
The road safety report proposes 14 recommendations to improve safety at the intersection, but the city administration only supports 11 of them. Tod urged the council to listen to the experts who studied the intersection and to implement measures like painting a bike box and lane on Wiggins Avenue and restricting right turns on red lights. He argued that the proposed changes are essential for preventing future accidents and saving lives. Despite the cost of $25,600 for the recommended measures, Tod insisted that it is a small price to pay for the safety of residents and emphasized the value of a human life.
In addition to Tod’s advocacy, the city council received feedback from the community, with 32 comments submitted on the issue. The discussion at the council meeting is expected to involve input from multiple stakeholders and residents concerned about road safety in Saskatoon. Tod’s passionate plea for action and his emphasis on the importance of investing in safety measures resonated with many in the community. The council will have to weigh the proposed recommendations against potential risks and costs to determine the best course of action for improving road safety at the College Drive and Wiggins Avenue intersection.
Overall, the road safety review for the College Drive and Wiggins Avenue intersection in Saskatoon has sparked a significant debate about the importance of prioritizing safety for all road users. Natasha Fox’s tragic death has highlighted the need for proactive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. Tod’s impassioned advocacy for improved infrastructure and safety measures has brought attention to the issue and encouraged the city council to consider expert recommendations for enhancing safety at the intersection. The upcoming council meeting will serve as a platform for stakeholders to voice their concerns and recommendations, with the ultimate goal of creating a safer environment for residents and visitors in Saskatoon. By working together and prioritizing road safety, the city can strive to prevent accidents and ensure that all individuals can travel safely on the streets.
