Safety Improvements at the 22nd St and 1st Ave W Intersection

Safety improvements were recently completed at the intersection of 22nd Street and 1st Avenue West to reduce the frequency and severity of collisions. This project was fully funded with the generous support of SGI, a key partner in the city’s ongoing work to improve road safety. 

This project was selected following a traffic safety review of various intersections throughout the City. Between 2013 and 2022, the intersection of 22nd Street & 1st Avenue West had the highest crash rate of all intersections reviewed and included 63 collisions, resulting in 22 injuries and nearly $800,000 in damages. 

“Safety is always our top priority when making traffic control decisions,” said Evan Hastings, Capital Projects Manager for the City of Prince Albert. “This intersection has consistently shown a high number of collisions, with 78% being particularly dangerous right-angle (T-Bone) collisions.”

The issue stems from reduced visibility of 22nd Street traffic from northbound and southbound due to skewed sightlines at the intersection. This limited visibility has contributed to a significant number of collisions. The angle of the intersection makes it difficult for drivers to see oncoming traffic, and when vehicles turn side by side, visibility becomes even worse.

The new median directs traffic into a single lane, improving sightlines, reducing conflicts between vehicles and pedestrians, and providing a safe location for a stop sign in the middle of the roadway. Previous solutions included flashing beacons on stop signs, but the median offers a more effective, long-term fix.

Similar measures have been successfully implemented in other cities throughout Canada, including Saskatoon. While this represents a small change for drivers, the decision is based on traffic data and best practices in road safety.

“This project is about ensuring drivers have the visibility they need to make safe choices,” Hastings added. “With SGI’s support, we can target high-risk intersections like this one and reduce the chances of collisions, injuries, and claims.”

The project was completed with the installation of 4 pedestrian ramps, which improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians entering Kinsmen Park, PACI, and residents nearby.

—30—

Media Contact:
Evan Hastings
Capital Projects Manager
City of Prince Albert
306.953.4884