Our Traffic Calming Policy is a proactive approach to improving safety and quality of life in our community.
This policy outlines how we assess and respond to concerns about speeding, high traffic volumes, and road safety in residential areas. It provides a clear, consistent process for identifying problem areas, engaging with the community, and implementing solutions that make our streets safer for everyone.
Designed with guidance from the Transportation Association of Canada (TAC) and shaped by feedback from our residents, the policy is built on transparency, evidence-based decision-making, and community input.
Whether you’re a concerned resident, a daily commuter, or a business owner, this policy gives you the tools to get involved and make a difference in your neighbourhood.
How It Works
The Traffic Calming Request process begins when a resident submits a request either online via the form below or in person at City Hall. From there, the City collects traffic data and works with residents to determine if calming measures are appropriate. If initial criteria are met, a survey is distributed within the neighbourhood, and a minimum of 60% support is required for a project to proceed.
Solutions are tailored to fit the specific street and traffic conditions. No two streets are exactly alike, so each project is carefully designed to address the unique challenge of its location. Once a traffic calming measure is in place, the City will continue to monitor it over a six-month period to ensure it is having the desired effect. Adjustments can be made as needed. Click here to submit a traffic calming request for your street.
Common Traffic Calming Measures
| TYPE | EXAMPLES | BENEFITS |
|---|---|---|
| Vertical | Speedhumps, cushions, raised crosswalks | Slow drivers; enhance pedestrian visibility |
| Horizontal | Curb extensions, chicanes | Narrow lanes to reduce speed |
| Signage and Feedback | Radar speed signs; traffic calmed neighbourhood signs | Warn and inform drivers to slow down |
| Obstructions | Right-in/right-out island; partial street closures | Reduces through traffic, discourages shortcutting |
Phased Traffic Calming Measures on Michener Avenue
The City of Mount Pearl is moving forward with a four-phase traffic calming plan for Michener Avenue to address ongoing concerns about speeding and improve safety for residents, pedestrians, cyclists, and students. The plan combines several traffic calming measures because no single solution addresses all concerns along the corridor. Improvements will be introduced in phases, beginning July 2026.
Installation of traffic cushions has begun. Traffic cushions are designed to help reduce vehicle speeds while allowing emergency vehicles to continue through the area efficiently. Residents can expect short-term lane interruptions while crews complete the work.
Radar speed signs will be installed in key locations along Michener Avenue to help increase driver awareness and encourage motorists to reduce their speed.
Radar signs will be installed near:
- Toope Place
- Paddon Place
- Sauve Street
- Nelder Drive
A new crosswalk and pedestrian activated signal will be installed near the intersection of Michener and Nelder Drive. To further improve pedestrian safety at the Michener Avenue exits and entrances to Powers Pond Park, the City will redesign the crossing area between Sauve Street and Darby Place and across from Moores Drive.
The work will include:
- Moving the crosswalks
- Adding pedestrian-activated flashing beacons
- Adding new accessible curb ramps
- Adding new sidewalk connections
As part of the project, two of the three existing trail connections between Sauve Street and Darby Place will be removed and one of the two existing trail connections across from Moores Drive will be removed. The remaining trail connections will lead directly to the new crosswalk locations.
A new four-way stop will be installed at Michener Avenue, McGrath Crescent, and the rear access road to Mount Pearl Intermediate.
Traffic studies show that about 75% of vehicles exiting the school's rear access road turn left despite existing right-turn-only signage. The new four-way stop is intended to improve site access and enhance safety for drivers, students, and pedestrians.
What Residents Can Expect
- Short-term traffic disruptions during installation.
- Temporary lane reductions in work areas.
- Updates before each phase begins.
The City will continue to share information as work progresses.
To submit a request to have traffic calming measures installed in your neighbourhood, visit mountpearl.ca/residents/traffic.
