New traffic calming features help curb speeding in Lethbridge

Commuters in Lethbridge will notice some new traffic calming features this spring. Traffic calming curbs and digital speed feedback signs have been installed on selected roadways throughout the city to help reduce driving speeds.

Speed is both a primary and secondary cause of collisions. When combined with high speeds, collisions can result in serious injuries and damage. Drivers are more likely to travel slower when given immediate feedback on their speed and when the road width is reduced with curb extensions at crosswalks.  These installations enhanced road safety for all users and are part of the recommendations in the City of Lethbridge Transportation Safety Plan. They have a flexible design for future modifications and are placed in locations where the community has expressed safety concerns, and the decision is supported by traffic data.

"These new features are part of our ongoing traffic calming program to reduce speeding on residential streets,” says Ahmed Ali, Traffic Engineer & Transportation Planner for the City of Lethbridge., “They offer an impactful, cost-effective and quickly deployable solution." 

Benefits of traffic calming curbs include shortened pedestrian crossing distances, improved driver yielding and stopping compliance, and better visibility at intersections. The temporary curb installations are a flexible solution that saves on costs before permanent changes are planned.  

Speed feedback signs are also in place to provide just-in-time reminders. The digital signs tell drivers how fast they are traveling and if their speeds are approaching or are above the posted limit. The City has recently installed speed feedback signs at 15 new locations throughout the community.

The City’s Transportation department will monitor speed and volume data before and after installation, and will conduct observations of pedestrian, cyclist and driver behaviour. This information will be considered as the City continues to evaluate the effectiveness of each installation and make necessary adjustments to traffic calming measures going forward.

Next steps:

• Hazard markers  will be added to enhance visibility on temporary curbs  in the coming weeks.
• Two speed feedback signs will be installed on Whoop-Up Drive beginning Friday, May 23, 2025. 
  • Commuters can expect partial lane closures on the outer lane in both directions of Whoop-Up Drive on Friday, May 23, 2025. The work will take approximately 2 hours at each site. 
  • Motorists are reminded to slow down around crews and follow posted signage.
  • Residents can find up-to-date road closures and construction details with our WebMap, a dynamic platform designed to enhance accessibility and streamline information. Go to lethbridge.ca/roadclosures and stay one step ahead of construction season. 

To find out more about speed reduction initiatives and for a full list of locations, visit getinvolvedlethbridge.ca/speed-reduction-initiatives. Residents can also call or chat online with 311 with inquiries or traffic calming requests.

For Public Inquiries:
Call or chat 311 | Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.