Guilford/Clarke Intersection FAQ

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Guilford Clarke Drive intersection questions answered

• Has a roundabout been considered and would it work?

  A roundabout was considered. A roundabout would require additional space in order to be constructed, and would involve building a large retaining wall to build outwards towards the highway. Due to the challenges and costs associated with construction of this retaining wall, this option was not pursued.  

• How will the Scott Crescent development impact traffic?

  The Scott Crescent development (Redbridge) was considered in the traffic analysis of this intersection re-design. The District reviewed the Traffic Impact Study for the Redbridge development which projected the additional traffic volumes that would use Clarke Drive to go to/from the development. Even with the higher traffic volumes anticipated once the Scott Crescent development is complete, more traffic is still anticipated to go to/from Valleycliffe than Hospital Hill.

• How long would the expected wait time be to turn right from Hospital Hill? Left into Hospital Hill?

  The traffic analysis modeled the busiest times of day to determine the anticipated wait times, which would be during the peak morning and afternoon commute times. The average delays during peak times are expected to be around 13 seconds for the right turn from Hospital Hill, and 8 seconds for the left turn into Hospital Hill. 

• Is the left hand turning bay long enough to hold many cars?

  Yes. An analysis was completed of the anticipated peak queue length and the left turn bay (lane) was designed to accommodate this peak queue.

• Was emergency travel to the hospital considered?

  Yes. The District consulted with Vancouver Coastal Health and hospital staff to discuss the proposed changes prior to proceeding with the detailed design. Because of the safety upgrades at the intersection, minimal changes in alignment, and ability of ambulances to use their lights and sirens, the intersection changes were not considered to have a significant impact .

• What about a yield for Hospital Hill?

  The safest scenario for both active transportation users and vehicles is a stop condition on Clarke Drive. Due to the major trail connection to Valleycliffe, it’s important that drivers stop to look for pedestrians and cyclists as well as vehicles before proceeding. Yield signs typically result in more rear-end collisions than stop conditions.