Southwest Division launches new traffic positions to address ongoing issues throughout community

Three new traffic patrol officers hit the streets in Southwest Edmonton today, in an effort to address increased traffic issues in the city’s fastest growing area.

“Southwest Edmonton continues to expand, and with that expansion, comes additional motorists and more traffic challenges,” said Insp. Steven Chwok. “Without a doubt, citizens continue to tell police that their number-one concern is traffic-related issues.

“This isn’t simply about enforcement. We’re hopeful these new positions will help to increase safety and awareness on roadways throughout this section of the city,” said Insp. Chwok, also noting that two of the city’s three freeways cut through Southwest Division (Anthony Henday and the Whitemud).

Last year, Southwest Division received 744 traffic complaints – the most traffic calls responded to in the city - representing 26 per cent of all traffic calls to EPS. In 2015 (to date), Southwest Division has received close to 500 traffic complaint calls, which represents the highest number of traffic calls responded to (by division) across the city. Southeast Division has received the second highest amount of traffic complaints thus far in 2015 at 430.

Southwest Division also boasts the highest concentration of schools in the city (67 in 2014), which combined with increased traffic volumes, places children at risk, explained Const. Paul.

“As any parent can attest, the roadways around schools are becoming increasingly difficult to navigate due to the volume of traffic flow through these areas,” said EPS Const. Andre Paul, who has been assigned to one of the three new traffic positions.

“That, combined with the fact Southwest Edmonton is also traversed by two of the city’s major freeways with the Anthony Henday and Whitemud, and you have a potential recipe for plenty of trouble.”

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