Existing Infrastructure

The intersection of 1st Street SE and 5th Avenue SE in Elbow Lake near North Elementary School is very busy during arrival and dismissal periods. There is a crosswalk on only one side of the intersection. Although traffic is controlled by stop signs and a flashing light, it is a very challenging intersection for students to cross.

Intersection of 1st Street SE and 5th Avenue SE in Elbow Lake near North Elementary School; the north side of the crosswalk lacks a curb ramp, and there is not a sidewalk going north from the intersection. The intersection is heavily travelled by students walking to and from school.

Central Avenue in front of South Elementary School in Kensington is excessively wide for a city street (approximately 55 feet). This creates challenges with vehicle congestion and queuing, making it difficult for students to cross the street. However, the width also provides opportunities for unique solutions to the issue.

Highway 55 and the CP / Soo Line Railroad tracks in Kensington are challenging for students to cross. The lack of sidewalks on Central Avenue requires students to walk on the shoulder.

The sidewalk along 1st Street SE in front of North Elementary School in Elbow Lake ends before it reaches 6th Avenue SE. Students and parents walking along 1st Street SE in this area must walk in the street to continue to the east.

The sidewalk along 4th Avenue SE is too narrow to allow students waiting for the bus to queue behind the red line and also allow for a 4-foot pedestrian access route.

Corner of 2nd Street SE and 6th Avenue SE in Elbow Lake; the lack of sidewalks on the south and east sides of North Elementary School mean that students must walk in the street in this area.

Vehicles parking / stopping close to crosswalks make it challenging for drivers of vehicles to see students who are trying to cross the street, and also make it difficult for students to see approaching vehicles. This example is at the corner of 1st Street SE and 4th Avenue SE in Elbow Lake, adjacent to North Elementary School.

Obstacles in the path of the sidewalk make it challenging to pass, particularly for people with physical disabilities or limited mobility. A clear, 4-foot pedestrian access route should be provided on all sidewalks. This example is located along 4th Avenue SE in Elbow Lake, next to North Elementary School.

Parked vehicles that block or protrude onto the sidewalk can be challenging to navigate around – especially for young children and those with physical disabilities or limited mobility.