A groundbreaking report set to be presented to the City of Waterloo council reveals the most perilous intersections in the city, alongside strategies for enhancing roadway safety for all users.

Since 2017, Waterloo has experienced a staggering 2,837 collisions, with certain intersections significantly contributing to this alarming statistic. The report, compiled by Transportation Services, leverages six years of data (excluding 2021) to pinpoint critical problem areas that demand immediate attention.

The intersection of Columbia Street West and Phillip Street, located on the northern side of the University of Waterloo, emerges as the most hazardous spot for drivers. Notably, Columbia Street is flagged as the riskiest road, with its intersections with Hagey Boulevard, Albert Street, Hazel Street, and Beechlawn Drive all appearing on the list of alarming intersections. Residents are anxious for change, especially at the high-ranking intersection of Albert Street and Hickory Street, where a transition from a two-way to a four-way stop is being recommended.

Top 10 Most Dangerous Intersections for Drivers:

1. Columbia Street West at Phillip Street 2. Albert Street at Columbia Street West 3. Albert Street at Hickory Street 4. Columbia Street West at Hagey Boulevard 5. Columbia Street West at Hazel Street 6. Phillip Street between University Avenue West and Columbia Street West 7. Allen Street at Park Street 8. Lexington Road at Davenport Road 9. Albert Street between University Avenue West and Hickory Street 10. Regina Street at Noecker Street

Despite these alarming statistics, it’s essential to recognize that Waterloo has seen significant strides in safety, with annual collisions plummeting from over 600 in 2017 to just 424 in 2023. Tragically, however, pedestrian safety remains a concern, with 66 reported crashes involving pedestrians since 2017, including a fatal incident in 2019 that claimed the life of a 19-year-old crossing University Avenue.

The most treacherous intersection for pedestrians is Regina Street at Lodge Street, where officials are urging enhancements such as better lighting and stricter parking regulations.

Top 10 Most Dangerous Intersections for Pedestrians:

1. Regina Street at Lodge Street 2. Columbia Street at Hazel Street 3. Columbia Street at Phillip Street 4. Columbia Street at Hagey Boulevard 5. Phillip Street between University Avenue West and Columbia Street West 6. Parkside Drive at Cedarbrae Avenue 7. Albert Street at Central Street 8. Lexington Road at Davenport Road 9. University Avenue East at Lexington Road 10. Bearinger Road at Parkside Drive

Additionally, cyclist safety is not overlooked in this report. Intersections such as Phillip Street between University Avenue West and Columbia Street have been highlighted as particularly hazardous for cyclists, prompting calls for interventions to protect this vulnerable group.

Top 10 Most Dangerous Intersections for Cyclists:

1. Phillip Street between University Avenue West and Columbia Street 2. Allen Street West at Park Street 3. Albert Street at Hazel Street 4. Bathurst Drive at McMurray Road 5. Columbia Street at Hazel Street 6. Albert Street between Columbia Street West and Cardill Crescent 7. Columbia Street West at Phillip Street 8. Laurelwood Drive at Old Oak Place 9. Keats Way at Amos Avenue 10. Columbia Street West at Beechlawn Drive

The report also sheds light on speeding issues throughout the city, identifying Conservation Drive as a critical area where speeds exceed the posted limit significantly. Average speeds were recorded at approximately 65 km/h, in stark contrast to the enforced speed limit of 50 km/h, raising concerns about enforcement and safety.

With this analysis and ongoing efforts to improve roadway conditions, city officials are committed to reevaluating these intersections annually, aiming to foster a safer environment for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike.

Stay tuned for further updates and what the city plans to do next! Are you ready to join the conversation on road safety in Waterloo?