Drivers will not be able to turn right on a red light at certain intersections in Winnipeg's Exchange District.

New lights being installed in the Exchange will let motorists know which intersections will no longer permit right turns on red.

These changes are connected to the West Alexander to East Exchange Corridor Project, which began in June this year and is seeking to improve rides for cyclists between Waterfront Dr. and Sherbrook St.

McDermot and Bannatyne will feature the new bike lanes, bike signals, and no-right-turn signs, and Ken Allen, communications officer for the public works department, says that the project will provide an important connection for the cycling network in Winnipeg.

 

"The benefit will be improved safety for cyclists," Allen explained.

The project, which is brand-new to the city, will affect eight intersections in the Exchange District, that will give priority traffic signals to cyclists.

This, coupled with adjustable bike lane curbs, will mean changes for those driving downtown.

"Previously, they would have been able to turn right on a red," said Allen. "Now they're going to have to wait until the light turns green for them to proceed."

Matt Veich, a cyclist who frequently rides by way of Winnipeg's Exchange, says he believes the added safety measures will do much to improve commutes for bikers and motorists alike.

"It means cyclists are more likely to stay in one place, which means a more predictable cycling experience for virtually everybody involved," he shared. "I think it's a good idea. There's a lot to be said for prioritizing certain streets [for safety]."

Veich says that while many individuals who cycle do use bike paths, sometimes roadways demand cyclists and motorists to share the road. More visible, bike-dedicated lanes are additions to the city that Veich says he welcomes.

"I would use them all the time," said the cyclist.

Any traffic change requires time for transition, and Veich encourages individuals to remain patient with each other, whether in a vehicle or on a bike. 

"Cycling is a lot of fun, and I think a lot of people think of biking in the city as something that's kind of dangerous, and I think that these kinds of things really help create spaces that are safe." 

 

No-right-turn signs are already posted and in effect at appropriate intersections. Allen says this is to ease the transition motorists and cyclists alike will face as the city project continues.

"We wanted to get them out there prior to the project being completed just to start to familiarize motorists with the way traffic is going to flow in that area. 

Of course, any time changes occur, it takes time to adjust.

"People need to be heads up (sic) whether they're driving a motor vehicle or riding a bike," says Allen. "Use caution, and think safety when proceeding through those new intersections."