Stintz on Midtown: New pedestrian crossing and wider sidewalks needed at Yonge and Eglinton?

During the summer months, a favourite pastime is to take advantage of the longer days and enjoy a stroll in the afternoon or evening. Whether walking the dog, getting an ice cream cone or just strolling down Yonge Street, it seems that the sidewalks around Yonge and Eglinton are busier than ever.

Most people aren’t aware that the average rate of pedestrians injured per day by cars has been rising steadily. Last year the average rate of pedestrian injuries was five per day. This year it is 5.7 per day. In 2013 the number of pedestrian deaths was 26. This year alone the number has doubled and we are still in summer. The most troubling aspect of this number is that all of the pedestrian fatalities were seniors. The trend seems to be that pedestrians are fatally injured at intersections when cars are turning left or right as the light is changing.

There is no question that the streets are getting busier and any initiative to improve safety is a welcome one, especially at Yonge and Eglinton, where new condo development is adding thousands of people and hundreds of cars to the area. Along with all the development comes the frustration of the endless construction.

When you add up road closures, random pylons on sidewalks and roads and construction hoarding, it makes it hard for people to get around.

In an attempt to improve pedestrian safety, the city is considering lowering speed limits in neighbourhoods to 30 kilometres per hour. In addition, there is a public awareness campaign on the importance of not jaywalking and not entering the intersection to cross the street once the flashing red hand appears. 

Instead of trying to crack down on jaywalking, the city should consider widening the sidewalks at Yonge and Eglinton and installing a pedestrian scramble.

Although controversial, a successful pedestrian scramble at major intersections first restricts pedestrians from crossing in any direction while allowing car drivers the ability to turn right, drive through or turn left. All traffic is then stopped, and the pedestrians have an opportunity to cross in any direction. 

It would help address the most serious risk, which is people rushing to get across the street before the light changes at the same time that drivers are desperate to make their turns.

I also know that people continue to look for solutions and care deeply about safer streets. Almost every street in North Toronto has a Slow Down, Kids at Play sign on at least one lawn. It is good advice.

Article exclusive to STREETS OF TORONTO