Two Canandaigua streets to see traffic pattern changes. What drivers should expect

CANANDAIGUA, NY — In an effort to improve traffic flow and reduce the potential for pedestrian and motor vehicle incidents, motorists accustomed to traveling two downtown Canandaigua streets will have to adjust their thinking.

Beginning Friday, Aug. 16, Phoenix and Coach streets, both of which intersect on Main Street in the heart of the city, will see changes in traffic patterns.

This transition is a culmination of many years of discussions, recommendations from a city parking study, Canandaigua Business Improvement District safety committee and community members with concerns about the limited visibility pulling out into a very busy Main Street, said Denise Chaapel, manager of the downtown business group.

“The BID takes pedestrian and vehicular safety pretty seriously, with way too many close calls, accidents, and heavy pedestrian traffic crossing at both those intersections,” Chaapel said. “This is worth exploring.”

What’s in store for drivers in downtown Canandaigua

Beginning Friday, motorists will drive east on the one-way portion of Phoenix Street, from South Main Street to Mill Street.

Motorists will only be able to drive west on a new one-way portion of Coach Street, from South Main Street to the public parking lots roughly 200 feet away.

A committee involving the city and businesses had been reviewing safety, traffic flow and parking regulation changes, according to Canandaigua City Manager John Goodwin. This is what they recommended.

Benefits of Phoenix Street change

In addition to addressing safety concerns, Goodwin said parking will move to the south side of Phoenix Street.

“That would allow us to add some beautification on Phoenix Street, put some flower planters along the sidewalk where the businesses are,” Goodwin said.

Multiple property owners are investing in new planters to line the street and making the fronts of these businesses more visible, Chaapel said.

Benefits of Coach Street change

Motorists who now exit Coach Street to drive onto South Main Street find it difficult because of the sight lines.

“It’s hard to see oncoming traffic plus you have pedestrian conflicts,” Goodwin said.

Like the pattern on nearby Coy Street, there will now be a one-way entrance onto Coach Street from Main. After the driver gets to the parking area, it becomes two-way traffic.

“The other idea behind it is to get people to go to these back parking lots and park where there is accessible parking so they can shop, dine and explore downtown,” Goodwin said.

Easy-access parking in Canandaigua

Because easy access to parking for consumers is critical also, Chaapel andother members of the BID are hoping that this new traffic pattern will help consumers find parking easier as it leads them directly to three large parking lots.

Both streets are incredibly vibrant with a market, restaurants, pubs, brewery, wine bar and live music.

“Our hope is to continue to expand on all the great businesses and vibes both streets currently offer in a safer way,” Chaapel said.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Two Canandaigua streets to see traffic pattern changes. What drivers should expect