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Johnson Street Bridge suggestion aimed at cycling safety

Future bridge head proposed to include ‘elephant’s feet’
Bike to Work Week
Cyclists travelling over new Johnson Street Bridge could benefit from proposed new markings at one entrance to the strutcure.

If crosswalks are for walking, then what is the intended use of “elephant’s feet” crossings?

If you guessed cycling, you’re right. The Transportation Association of Canada recently introduced this new type of roadway intersection crossing, dedicated to bicycles.

And Victoria, hoping to be one of the first cities in the province to create one, is considering placing it by the Johnson Street Bridge entrance.

The staff proposal is in response to public feedback about how best to plan for the public land and pathways on both sides of the new bridge.

More than 200 people attended public meetings on the topic this spring. Additionally, 124 people filled out a survey on their preferences. In summary, people asked for better walking and cycling routes, plazas where city events and festivals can be held, and new green space.

People also wanted traffic-calming measures.

The city has allocated $1.3 million for these public-realm features.

Elephant’s feet crossings are marked by large squares of white paint on both sides of the crossing. The city proposes to place one of these bicycle crossings at the northeast end of the new Johnson Street Bridge.

rholmen@vicnews.com