KANATA NORTH NEWS Marianne Wilkinson Councillor, Kanata North

Kanata Ave
Traffic problems and delays are occurring due to the partial closure of Kanata Ave. I have discussed this problem with staff and they have agreed to short and longer term solutions to assist traffic flow. In the short term they are revising the marking plans on the road to add right and left turn lanes at appropriate intersections, including at Campeau Dr. This will impact the cycling lanes for the duration of the road closure. Share the road cyclists signs will be put in place. Left turn lanes at both Goldridge intersections and Knudson will be added for use during the closure as well. Additional monitoring of the Kanata/Campeau intersection is being done so that signal timing can be adjusted as required. For the long-term, additional changes will be implemented as required. When the widening of Campeau Drive from Kanata Ave. to Didsbury is done that intersection will be completely upgraded. Funding for that work is to be in the 2011 budget. Staff have provided the following information about the reconstruction of Kanata Ave: The Contractor will only be completing the section of Kanata Ave. from Richardson Side Rd. to Stikine this year. Due to numerous issues, such as blasting time, installation of the underground hydro, installation and relocation of a significant size gas main and seasonal issues, they will complete the section from Stikine to GFR next spring. Enbridge only recently located the 8 inch gas main for us, which was only roughly known previously and since the Contractor is not working from Stikine to GFR this year, it allows us the opportunity to move this gas main.

Singers Take Note

There are two excellent choral groups in our area, the Kanata Choral Society and the Goulbourn Jubilee Singers, which provide concerts throughout the year. If you enjoy singing check them out by going to their websites www.kanatachoralsociety.ca and www.gjsingers.com

Traffic Issues
The most common complaints I receive focus on traffic particularly speeding, failure to stop at a stop sign and parking blocking sight lines. Each month the Ottawa Police focus on one aspect of traffic safety. This month the focus is on pedestrian safety and red light running. I urge all residents to slow down, watch for pedestrians and stop at every stop sign and then look before proceeding. Stop signs are provided not only for traffic control but also to assist pedestrians in crossing the street. In 2009, 774 collisions occurred due to drivers failing to stop for red lights, resulting in one death and 376 injuries. Adding a few seconds to your trip could save a life and also save you from a hefty fine.

Liquor Licenses
From time to time I receive notice that a liquor license has been applied for by a local business. The most recent is for the Ox Head restaurant at 790 Kanata Ave. in the Centrum. I will be mentioning in this column each application as received for the information of residents.

Conferences and Conventions

I will be attending the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) conference in Windsor next week. As well as attending sessions on issues of importance in Ontario, I will be meeting with a number of provincial cabinet ministers about Ottawa issues. Some of the ways AMO has benefited municipalities has been through negotiations on uploading provincial services that we were required to manage in the past and in obtaining gas tax funding for transit projects. Many conventions are held in Ottawa each year providing an important boost to the local economy. This week the National Convention of the Catholic Women's League is gathering with the theme of Women of Peace and Hope. I wish them success in achieving their goals.

Serving the residents and businesses in Kanata North

To receive the Kanata North Newsletter, to deal with a concern or make a suggestion contact me at 613-580-2474, email Marianne.Wilkinson@ottawa.ca or through www.mariannewilkinson.com.