---Lattion and Beaulac intersection to get four-way stop

Aiming to make residential streets safer for everyone, Gatineau’s Executive Committee recently approved a resolution to install a four-way stop at the intersection of chemin Lattion and rue Beaulac. Having wrestled with the city to install a four-way stop in that location since being elected in 2017, Aylmer district councillor Audrey Bureau told the Aylmer Bulletin that she’s relieved and happy to finally move on, knowing that an important problem will be directly addressed. Thankful for the community’s support in helping the file progress over the last four years, Bureau notably highlighted the contributions of the Friends of the Aylmer Marina, Action Vélo Outaouais, Liberal MP Greg Fergus, Member of National Assembly André Fortin, as well as the residents of her district.

Explaining that the file’s complexity was the main reason why it took so long to address, she clarified that the intersection had been the site of many near-accidents witnessed by residents. But, since none were reported, the city had no data about the frequency and nature of these incidents. “Citizens weren’t reporting it to 3-1-1 since there were no accidents and only near-accidents,” Bureau said. “The absence of data, showing the danger of the intersection because of these near accidents made the file more complicated.” Stating that the city conducted a number of traffic studies at the intersection over the last few years, Bureau estimated that the high volume of pedestrians and cyclists crossing it was an important decisional factor for the file. “It really showed the importance of having a four-way stop to protect them at the intersection,” Bureau said.

Bureau added that the city should install the new stop signs in the coming weeks. While safety measures at a number of dangerous intersections in the sector still need to be addressed, Bureau noted that the Lattion-Beaulac intersection was the most brought up by residents during her electoral campaign in 2017. She also encouraged residents preoccupied with the safety of certain intersections to register a service request to 3-1-1, and to contact their district’s municipal councillor. “The first step is always a 3-1-1 request,” Bureau said.