In the old days, when Martensville was a small town, folks could park anywhere along the main drag and amble leisurely across the street without worrying about dodging traffic.
Those days are long gone.
Last month, Centennial Drive North from Main Street to 3rd Street North was reconstructed and repaved. As part of that project, a mid-block crosswalk with flashing warning lights was installed on the busy commercial thoroughfare to allow pedestrians to navigate safely through the steady stream of vehicles.
The repaving also included markings for clearly-designated driving lanes.
Now, the gradual trend to discourage parking on the street has been made official.
Martensville City Council confirmed at its meeting on Tuesday, June 6 that ‘No Parking’ signage will be posted along Centennial Drive North.
Martensville City Manager Scott Blevins said after signage is posted in the next few weeks, there will be a period where the focus will be on educating the public about the new rule. Letters will also be sent to businesses along the street.
Martensville Mayor Kent Muench said the new road markings should provide drivers with visual clues that on-street parking is not permitted. But, he added, it will take some time for the message to get through and for long-held habits to change.
“There won’t be any tickets handed out right away,” confirmed Muench. “But it’s important to let everyone know that the rules have changed.”
Martensville City Councillor Darren MacDonald said traffic flows have largely adapted to two driving lanes on both sides of the street, particularly since the recent markings were installed. He said he’s in favour of having the no–parking signage installed as soon as possible.
Councillor Mike Cox agreed with the decision, saying the two lanes are well-marked.
“It just makes sense to not allow parking on a street that’s this busy,” said Cox.