[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Radarsign09.jpg” caption=”A new radar sign has been installed overtop Cootes Drive on the western edge of campus.”]A new radar sign overtop Cootes Drive on the western edge of campus helps remind motorists of the speed limit, while informing them how fast they are travelling as they drive towards Main Street.

The sign installed on the face of the Westaway Road bridge is part of the University's ongoing traffic and pedestrian safety management plan and is jointly funded by McMaster University and the City of Hamilton. Last summer the City of Hamilton made the portion of Cootes Drive on the west campus a 50 kmph zone and the radar signs are a visual reminder to slow down before the crosswalk at Sanders Boulevard.

“We are pleased with the shared effort with the City of Hamilton, ward 1 counsellor Brian McHattie and community members to enhance the safety of our campus and the surrounding area for pedestrians,” says Terry Sullivan, director of security and parking services. “By increasing the number of visual reminders around campus we hope to raise awareness for both motorists and pedestrians to exercise caution.”

A program is already underway at McMaster to make campus a more pedestrian-friendly space including painting every crosswalk with a large grid, using fluorescent paint for crosswalks, increasing the amount of stop signs on campus roads and encouraging the use of sidewalks.

“These are safe zones as pedestrians cross and move about campus,” said Sullivan. “Most people walking around campus are using the designated sidewalks but these visual reminders are helpful to reinforce the importance of safety.”

McMaster University and the City of Hamilton will continue to monitor campus and the surrounding area to enhance mobility for both pedestrians and motorists.