by Olawale Tijani
October brings increased activity to Killarney-Glengarry streets with school, commuting, and fall routines underway. Focus areas include road safety, school zones, active transportation, and seasonal precautions, in line with Calgary’s August 25, 2025, safety update.
For Drivers
• School Zones: Follow posted speed limits: school zones and playground zones are treated the same, with a legal reduced speed of 30 km/h from 7:30 am to 9:00 pm, every day, year-round. Always watch for children and obey crossing guards.
• Drop-off and Pick-up: Use designated areas only; avoid double-parking or blocking driveways, bus stops, and hydrants. Stay in your car in drive-through lanes to keep traffic moving.
• Cyclists and Pedestrians: Give cyclists at least one meter of clearance. Check mirrors before turning. Stay alert near parks and schools during arrival and dismissal times.
• Commutes: Expect congestion. Leave extra time, use alternate routes, and practice patience.
• Weather and Visibility: Fog, rain, and wet leaves can reduce traction. Drive slower, increase stopping distances, and use headlights as daylight shortens.
For Residents and Community Members
• Neighbourhood Awareness: Anticipate more pedestrian and cycling activity. Stay cautious on residential streets and talk with your family about safe travel routines.
• Active Transportation: Encourage walking, biking, or carpooling to ease traffic. Participate in walking school buses or cycling groups.
• Seasonal Safety: Keep sidewalks clear of leaves and ensure outdoor lighting is adequate. Encourage reflective clothing and bike lights for early or late travel.
• Community Engagement: Support safety campaigns, volunteer as a crossing guard or patrol, and report unsafe conditions such as blocked crosswalks or damaged signage.
For Students and Families
• Pedestrian Safety: Cross only at marked crosswalks, make eye contact with drivers, and avoid distractions like phones or headphones.
• Cycling and Scooters: Always wear a properly fitted helmet. Use bike lanes, ride predictably, and install lights and reflectors for low-light conditions. Learn and use hand signals.
• Safe Travel Habits: Practice routes with parents until confident. Carry backpacks with both straps. Walk or bike with friends and follow school bus safety rules.
Community and Enforcement Updates
• School Zone Patrols: Police and bylaw officers will increase their presence in high-traffic areas. Fines are higher in school zones.
• Traffic Calming: New crosswalks, signage, markings, and temporary speed bumps are in place near schools.
• Education Initiatives: Safety campaigns, “Bike to School Day,” and pedestrian workshops may occur through schools and community centres.
City of Calgary’s Proactive Measures
Beyond safety reminders, Calgary has completed or nearly completed improvements at over 50 school sites. Upgrades include refreshed crosswalks, new signage, and other infrastructure enhancements—demonstrating a city-wide commitment to long-term traffic safety.
Final Reminders
Safe streets are a shared responsibility. By slowing down, yielding to pedestrians, and encouraging active transportation, we foster a culture of safety and respect. Small actions—like leaving a few minutes early, modelling safe habits for children, or volunteering in local initiatives—add up to significant improvements for our community.
Together, let’s make October a safe and supportive month for all.
Olawale Tijani
Director of Traffic and Safe Streets
Killarney-Glengarry Community Association
Click here to the Killarney-Glengarry Community News home page for the latest Killarney-Glengarry community updates.
