BATTLEFORD - The Town of Battleford has made it clear it wants to be among the growing number of communities receiving funds for speed signs.
At their council meeting on Monday, Battleford council approved an application by the town for the provincial grant toward the purchase of speed tracking devices.
This is the Provincial Traffic Safety Fund grant initiative backed by SGI. A number of communities including North Battleford received funds following the last intake in January to March 2021, with the City of North Battleford receiving $68,909 this year toward their own set of advanced warning signs to alert motorists of reduced speeds ahead.
The latest intake for applications is currently under way. If Battleford’s application is successful, the grant would be used toward flashing speed tracking signs that would be set up on neighbourhood roads. The signs would display the speeds of oncoming drivers as they approached.
According to town administrator Ash Alam at the meeting, the intention is to place the signs in high-traffic areas such as school zones. It was noted at the meeting that the signs are effective in encouraging drivers to reduce their speeds on the roads.
Council members liked the idea of obtaining speed signs. Mayor Ames Leslie noted that having people choose to obey speed signs was preferred instead of turning to law enforcement.
“If people choose to slow down, that’s the preferred option,” said Leslie.
Council members were unanimously in favour of the resolution at council Monday approving the application.
