Located on the side of one of Montreal’s major highways, the Ullivik health centre is surrounded by cars and traffic.
It’s a sight that could be daunting for some of its residents, many of them from small northern communities, who travel to the centre for specialized care.
Last August, two Inuuk women, staying at the centre, were tragically struck and killed on two highways in two separate incidents.
Both were walking from the centre to Dorval’s commercial and transit hubs.
“Both tragic deaths could have been prevented if proper signage had been in place to direct them to and from the commercial area of Dorval,” said Marc Doret, Dorval’s mayor.
In an effort to make the area safer, the city has installed new pedestrian crossings and new directional signs with three languages on them: English, French and Inuktitut.
The signs have been installed along two different routes that go around the east and west sides of the Dorval circle, leading to Ullivik.
“Some people walk, not taking the bus or taxi,” said Oleesee, a Nunavik resident. “It’s helpful for them to come back here, cause they now see Ullivik signs even in Inuktitut, so it is good.”
The centre’s director also welcomed the new measures, saying they are instrumental in helping Inuit feel safe and confident exploring the city.
“This is not just a matter of words on signs, it is a testament to cultural diversity and respect,” Rita Novalinga said.
Staff added that more traffic calming measures could be needed to keep residents safe, saying they’d also like to see a stop sign or speed bump in front of the centre.
Dorval’s mayor added that the measures implemented Monday were the first of many steps.
Both say they are looking forward to continued collaboration in bridging cultural differences and keeping people safe.