Toronto City Council has approved the installation of a unique “scramble intersection” at the bustling junction of Yonge and Eglinton streets, aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety and traffic flow in the area.
Councillor Josh Matlow spearheaded the proposal, advocating for another scramble intersection to be set up slightly further north at Yonge Street and Roehampton Avenue/Orchard View Boulevard. However, the council has decided to evaluate the effectiveness of the first intersection before proceeding with the second one.
Matlow emphasized the necessity of making Yonge and Eglinton, one of the city’s busiest intersections, safer and more manageable for everyone.
A scramble intersection, also known as a Pedestrian Priority Phase, will halt all vehicular traffic in every direction at specified intervals, allowing pedestrians to cross in any direction, even diagonally. This innovative approach aims to ease sidewalk congestion caused by the approximately 4,500 pedestrians crossing Yonge and Eglinton every hour.
Advocates like Lee Scott, a member of Walk Toronto, have been pushing for the installation of a scramble intersection since last year. Scott highlighted the challenges pedestrians face with traditional intersections and the need for a safer and more efficient crossing solution.
Scheduled for installation in 2027, the proposal has raised some concerns, particularly regarding potential delays for drivers due to additional pedestrian-only signal cycles. Matti Siemiatycki, a Professor at the University of Toronto, pointed out the importance of strategic signal timing optimization along the Yonge Street corridor to mitigate traffic disruptions.
Council has tasked Transportation Services with coordinating signal timing adjustments to ensure a smoother flow of both vehicles and pedestrians. Matlow expressed confidence in the city staff’s ability to strike a balance that benefits all road users.
Siemiatycki emphasized the importance of considering the accessibility needs of individuals with disabilities, particularly those with visual impairments, to ensure safe navigation in the newly transformed pedestrian-friendly space.
In the midst of a vibrant pedestrian environment and improved transit connections, Siemiatycki emphasized the significance of prioritizing pedestrians at Yonge and Eglinton to further enhance the area’s vitality and functionality.