The head of Charlottetown’s public works committee is assuring residents that steps are being taken to address traffic congestion at a key city intersection, although the solution will require some patience. Councilor Mitchell Tweel acknowledges the challenges at the junction of Belvedere Avenue and University Avenue, where traffic volume is notably high, with approximately 25,000 vehicles passing through daily.
To alleviate the congestion, the city is implementing the University Avenue Master Plan, focusing on enhancing traffic flow along University Avenue from Belvedere Avenue to Euston Street. The plan includes the addition of new right-turn lanes, a central median, two intersections, and bike lanes. While the construction was initially slated to begin in 2024, ongoing negotiations with stakeholders have caused delays. Tweel confirmed that discussions with property owners and stakeholders are progressing to finalize details before the anticipated construction start in 2027.
The project, estimated to cost between $20 to $30 million, will be executed in six phases. Tweel emphasized the need for collaboration with telecommunications and utility companies to ensure the project’s success on the first attempt. He highlighted the growing traffic congestion as a consequence of the city’s expanding population and advocated for increased support from provincial and federal authorities to keep pace with infrastructure demands.
Charlottetown City Council has submitted funding requests, including $20.8 million for the initial phase of the University Avenue redesign, under the Canada Community Building Fund. The approved funding is expected to be allocated primarily in the 2027-28 fiscal year, indicating a concerted effort to address the city’s evolving infrastructure needs.
