The phrase “you’re taking your life into your hands” was repeated Wednesday night at the first meeting of Rescue Bronson Avenue.
Rescue Bronson is a partnership between the Centretown Community Association, the Dalhousie Community Association, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation and Somerset Coun. Diane Holmes.
All four described Bronson Avenue as dangerous and said they would like major adjustments to make the road friendlier to pedestrians and cyclists.
The city is on track to reconstruct Bronson between 2011 and 2013, putting in new water and sewer lines. The current plan, however, doesn’t take into account possible street improvements and road diet options.
Part of Rescue Bronson’s proposed full-scale plan, presented by DCA president Eric Darwin, would reduce Bronson to a three lane road, using the centre lane as a dedicated left turn lane. This, he said at the meeting, would allow the city to widen sidewalks and add either planter boxes or green space.
Darwin said reducing Bronson to three lanes would result in slower traffic through the thoroughfare, which is Rescue Bronson Avenue’s main goal.
A suggestion from a community member to paint the new lines now rather than waiting until after re-construction was met with applause from the 75 people in attendance.
Holmes’ response was: “the mouthier you are the better!”
She encouraged residents to complain to the mayor, write letters to the editor to local publications and show city council the community means business.
“We would like the city to work with the community to find the best solution for a better Bronson,” Darwin said. “It’s a once in a century chance to make a better Bronson for everyone.”