The provincial government is launching a traffic flow study on Pitts Memorial.

A request for proposals has been issued for a two-phase traffic study covering Pitts, and the Trans Canada Highway interchange with the aim of improving traffic flow in and out of the capital city region.

The first phase will study how traffic moves on Pitts from Foxtrap to the downtown, and the Trans Canada from Paddy’s Pond to Allandale Road in addition to all roads, ramps, intersections and nearby overpasses.

Government says the goal is to gain a better understanding about where the congestion occurs, traffic delays and what improvements can be made.

Among the options being considered is an extra lane on the TCH, and new interchanges in key areas.

A draft report on the first phase of the study is expected next spring.

The second phase will focus on either replacing or upgrading the Cloverleaf at Pitts and the Trans Canada, including a variety of design options.  That draft report is expected late next summer, with input sought from local municipalities including St. John’s, Mount Pearl, Paradise and CBS.