SASKATOON – From driving in the snow to driving through construction zones, it seems like Saskatoon motorists can’t catch a break.
A major road reconstruction project got underway on Circle Drive yesterday and it is just the beginning of what is set to be a busy construction season.
The city’s new zipper merge on Circle Drive is the first time it’s been used in Saskatoon. It’s a successful technique adopted from U.S. states like Minnesota.
“Risks are a lot higher where there are differences in speed. Basically one lane’s at a standstill and the other lane is still moving at a high rate of speed, so that can potentially lead to high impact collisions,” said Chris Hallam, city construction and design manager.
When a lane is closed, motorists are encouraged to use both lanes until they reach the construction zone, then take turns moving into the open lane.
If motorists don’t adhere to the zipper merge, they could be slapped with a ticket.
City council will be reviewing this ‘pilot’ zipper merge and if the new system functions well, it will be used for future major construction projects.
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