Courtenay Council has narrowed down what it would like to see to improve pedestrian safety and traffic flow at the Cliffe Avenue and 5th Street intersection.

Five possible upgrades were being looked at and Council discussed the impacts of each on safety, connectivity, and vehicle movement.

Staff recommended removing the northbound right-turn channel as the most effective way to improve pedestrian comfort and create additional public space.

Adding a fourth pedestrian crossing on the east leg was also identified as a way to strengthen downtown walkability, though it would require signal upgrades and minor construction.

Council supported moving forward with both the removal of the northbound right-turn channel and the addition of a fourth crossing, with funding estimated at $600,000 through the Traffic Signal Renewal Program.

Council also directed staff to review and adjust signal timing at the intersection to reduce congestion on Cliffe Avenue.

Council has asked staff to add the project to the 2026 Financial Plan.

Find the Council meeting highlights at City of Courtenay.

To view agendas, videos and minutes (once available) for each Council meeting, visit Courtenay Council Meetings.