City looks to expand pedestrian head-start system at crosswalks

The city is looking at expanding a program that gives pedestrians a head start crossing intersections that was successful downtown.

Several changes regarding how you get around Winnipeg are under consideration at city hall.

The city is looking to roll out leading pedestrian intervals (LPIs) at signalized crosswalks across the city.

Per a standing policy committee report, LPIs give pedestrians a head start crossing the street before the light turns green for vehicles.

This helps pedestrians become more visible to drivers and lowers the risk of a crash.

The system was implemented throughout Winnipeg’s downtown earlier last year at 100 intersections.

According to the report, a review indicated the LPIs improved safety for pedestrians and motorists and had little impact on traffic congestion.

If approved, new locations for LPI would be chosen based on safety risks, signal compatibility, the number of pedestrians involved, and vehicle volumes.

The installation across neighborhoods would take place over the next five years.

Previously studied locations will not be re-evaluated.

The motion will be discussed at a committee meeting on Jan. 8.

-With files from CTV’s Will Reimer