Concerns about pedestrian safety on Elgin Street North near Galt Avenue could soon be alleviated with a crosswalk if council approves the $75,000 expense next week.
City staff is recommending the interim safety measure following an updated review of the crossing and consideration of a delayed timeline for the road's reconstruction.
Road reconstruction two years from now will incorporate pedestrian refugee islands into the crossover design.
The change comes four years after staff initiated a review of the crossing in response to resident concerns. That study concluded pedestrian refuge islands were the way to go.
At the time, the road was scheduled for reconstruction in 2022 but was pushed ahead. As a temporary measure, painted pedestrian islands were installed in 2021.
Then, during the 2023 budget process, timing for the reconstruction was pushed again to 2026-2027.
Based on the revised construction schedule staff updated its review of the crossing in March to conclude an interim safety crossing including flashing beacons, solar power, signs, pavement markings, illumination and sidewalk connections were warranted.
As part of the implementation, the city will also install new sidewalk connections with drop curbs that meet accessibility standards.
Staff say equipment at the crossing will be reused and incorporated into the future reconstruction of Elgin Street North.
The recommendation asks council to add the project to the 2024 capital budget and fund it through the capital works reserve fund.