Hanson Ranch Roundabout
Background Information
Over the last few years, the City has received a number of complaints regarding speeding, higher traffic volumes and pedestrian safety concerns along Hidden Creek Blvd, including community meetings. Prior to opening the 14 St NW interchange, the majority of residents utilized Hidden Creek Blvd/Hidden Creek Dr to access Stoney Trail via Beddington Trail.
Calgary Police Service was also involved in a number of speed enforcement events along Hidden Creek Blvd. The city collected speed data in 2017 that did not indicate severe levels of speeding. However, the City of Calgary continued receiving concerns regarding speeding and pedestrian safety along this roadway.
In consideration of the concerns raised in the area, the decision to proceed with the installation of a traffic roundabout with temporary elements was made in 2020. The temporary installation was completed in November of 2022.
Project Update:
3/14/23: The City is conducting additional site/video observations to identify any challenges through the summer with increased pedestrian activity; they will also seek input from the Calgary Police Service on their observations/input.
A rapid flashing beacon at the crosswalk was installed at this intersection to increase visibility and reduce pedestrian collisions and a roundabout using temporary curbs to replicate a typical roundabout has been installed to determine if this is the best solution to calm the flow of traffic within the area.
What is the permanent plan for this intersection?
The city will monitor the roundabout’s operations for 1-2 years. If this installation proves to be helpful in reducing speed as well as improving pedestrian comfort and safety, the city can include this for review to be made permanent in 2024.
The city’s Mobility Safety team will evaluate the performance next year (2023) and make a decision to make the measure permanent in 2024 if positive impacts are realized as a result of this installation.
The Ward 3 office has received many inquiries about this roundabout. Like all new infrastructure installations, change takes time to get used to and the safety of residents in the community is the priority.
Right of Way Rules in One-Lane Traffic Circles & Roundabouts in Alberta:
Ø Always yield to vehicles already in the traffic circle or roundabout when you approach.
Ø Once you’re inside the traffic circle or roundabout, you have the right of way to exit.
Ø Make sure to use your signals when you’re entering and exiting.
Ø You MUST yield to Pedestrians before you enter the circle and before exiting.
Ø Pedestrians should always use available crosswalks and assess when the best time to enter into the crosswalk safely is allowing time for vehicles to stop.
Roundabout: Roundabouts are smaller and intended for slower speeds. They’re most common in residential areas where they’re used to calm traffic. Roundabouts are also shown to be a more effective safety measures (and less costly) than stoplights.