A recent survey on the Braefoot Neighbourhood Bikeway Project found that many residents support traffic-calming measures, including speed humps, to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
As part of Saanich’s Active Transportation Plan, the project aims to reduce vehicle speeds and improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians.
The survey, conducted during December 2024 and January 2025, gathered feedback from 105 residents to gain insight into the public’s position on the project.
It found that 30 per cent of respondents avoided walking or cycling on Braefoot Road due to current conditions, while the same percentage believed vehicle speeds were too high.
Three out of four respondents believed signage alone won’t be enough to slow traffic, while just over half support adding speed humps to reduce speeds on the road. In its report, the district said it plans to install five-speed humps along Braefoot Road, spaced about 112 metres apart, to maintain slower speeds.
Respondents also voiced their concern about the removal of the yellow centreline and its impact on parking space on both sides of the road. The district stated that Braefoot meets parking design standards and that parked vehicles help slow traffic. Parking restrictions will be added near the school and park to create more yield points.
While some neighbours questioned the project's necessity, the municipality argues that lower speeds and improved infrastructure could attract more cyclists and pedestrians to the road.
Unlike traditional bike lanes, the district will opt for road markings to encourage vehicles and cyclists to share the space.
The district also announced reducing the speed to 30 km/h aimed at preventing traffic-related injuries in this highly active neighbourhood, surrounded by parks and schools.
Construction is proposed to start in 2025.
For more information on the project, visit saanich.ca/braefootbikeway.
