Toronto’s bustling Yonge-Eglinton intersection might one day get a pedestrian scramble — a crosswalk where the traffic signal stops all vehicle traffic and allows pedestrians to cross in all directions, including north-south and east-west directions, as well as diagonally (similar to the ones at the busy Yonge-Bloor and Yonge Dundas intersections).
Councillor Josh Matlow, with support from Councillor Mike Colle, introduced a notice of motion for the city’s transportation department to explore the feasibility of implementing this scramble. The motion suggests that a feasibility report be completed by mid-2025 — after the Eglinton Crosstown LRT is (hopefully) operating.
“The high-rise neighbourhood surrounding the Yonge and Eglinton intersection is one of the most densely populated areas of Toronto,” the motion states, adding that a count taken by the City in May of this year found that 40,372 pedestrians crossed the intersection in one day — the highest total observed at any intersection in Toronto between 2020-2024.
“During peak periods there are often queues at corners leading to residents waiting more than one traffic light phase just to cross the street,” the motion adds. “While the local community is still waiting for Metrolinx to open the Eglinton Crosstown LRT, construction is finally finished at the Yonge and Eglinton intersection. Now is the right time to start the process to install a pedestrian scramble to provide safety and convenience for pedestrians at this intersection.”
As notice of the motion has been given, the proposal needs to be discussed by/is subject to referral to the city’s Infrastructure and Environment Committee (a two-thirds vote is required to waive referral). The item will be considered by City Council on Nov. 13.
In addition to the Yonge-Bloor and Yonge Dundas intersections, Toronto also has a pedestrian scramble at the Rogers Rd-Old Weston Rd-Watts Ave-Hillary Ave intersection as well as at the Service Canada Centre in Scarborough (200 Town Centre Court). Click here for more info on the pedestrian scramble system.
