'Zipper Merge' method advised in dealing with construction

Given the significant amount of roadway construction taking place throughout the city, Greater Sudbury Police is designating July as Construction Zone Safety Month.

Police are taking this action in response to some of the expressed concerns by members of the community.

Motorists are being asked to keep in mind construction is taking place not only on many city streets, but also on major highways surrounding the city and efforts will be made to provide visibility and enforcement at many of the construction zones.

Police are reminding motorists to expect delays, be patient and allow extra time to reach your destination due to the construction taking place.

It is important that motorists are aware of the traffic lights and other motorists, making sure not to enter into an intersection when it is likely to block traffic. This only causes further delays, heightened frustration, and an increased possibility of collisions.

The city has posted signage on Lasalle Boulevard, encouraging motorists to use both lanes and do the Zipper Merge.

“When a lane is closed in a construction zone, motorists should line up using both lanes then proceed through the construction zone one at a time by alternating from each lane,” said the police in a news release, citing the city's advice. “Vehicles in the merging lane should signal. Each driver in the through lane should let one vehicle merge.

"Traffic alternates in a 'zipper' fashion into the open lane. The Zipper Merge is a fair method of sharing the road. Courtesy to fellow motorists will equalize wait times and reduce driver frustration.”

Another area of concern that has been expressed by the public is the unsafe All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) driving practises taking place on the roadways and trails especially on the weekends. Taking into consideration that construction generally takes place during the week, this allows police to also incorporate July as ATV Road Safety Month.

Members of the Traffic Management Unit and the Rural Unit will be focusing attention on high risk related driving practises such as speeding and careless driving, as well as lack of proper safety equipment.

Refer to www.greatersudbury.ca and search ATV bylaw for further information about allowed roadways and rules of the road. Be a responsible driver and abide by the rules and regulations of the road, said police.