Take Action: Help Make Island Park Drive and Clearview Avenue Safer

The IPCA is encouraging residents to add their voices to the call for a safer intersection at Island Park Drive and Clearview Avenue.

Visit fixthecrossing.com to read the background, see resident stories, and find information on how to contact Councillor Jeff Leiper and Mayor Mark Sutcliffe.

The intersection at Island Park Drive and Clearview Avenue has been a long-standing concern for families, pedestrians, cyclists, drivers, and nearby residents. Island Park Drive carries approximately 20,000 to 25,000 vehicles per day to and from the Champlain Bridge, yet Clearview Avenue remains the only four-way intersection on Island Park Drive without a traffic light. The existing flashing pedestrian signal is not enough. Residents continue to report that drivers ignore it, creating unsafe conditions for people trying to cross.

The safety concerns are serious. In the past year, two accidents involving children occurred at this intersection, including one that resulted in hospitalization. Parents have said they do not feel safe letting their children walk to school alone. Residents have also reported close calls involving pedestrians, crossing guards, buses, and vehicles trying to turn onto or across Island Park Drive.

For years, the complicated jurisdiction between the National Capital Commission and the City of Ottawa has delayed action. That barrier has now been removed. The NCC has formally confirmed that decisions about traffic control measures, including a four-way traffic signal, are the responsibility of the City of Ottawa. The NCC has also said it will help facilitate implementation once the City determines a signal is warranted.

Now the City needs to act.