Pedestrian Safety
As the city grows, so does the traffic. As we expand, we must consider how we prioritize active transportation. Pedestrian crossing safety is key to encouraging more people to choose walking as a mode of travel. While we wait for a report on lower speed limits, we need to continue the work we’re doing to improve road safety.
There are two areas in our community where I have previously pushed for action. I’m trying again—this time, with more funding available for crossings, I’m hopeful we’ll see progress on road and pedestrian safety.
Ellice and Erin
This intersection has seen many near misses and even collisions, including one involving Goodies Bakery. People travelling through this area are understandably concerned. My motion calls on the public service to explore traffic calming measures and red-light enforcement. Adding bollards near Goodies Bakery would help pedestrians feel safer at this corner, where we’ve seen multiple incidents.
Westminster and Ethelbert
My second motion proposes installing a lighted four-way stop at Westminster and Ethelbert. The area has experienced significant changes, most notably the addition of the cycling lane on Westminster and the greenway on Wolseley, which has shifted more traffic to Westminster. Several schools are nearby—including a Montessori school and daycare on Westminster and Mulvey, and Laura Secord School on Wolseley—so many families are crossing Westminster daily.
There is also a curve in the road that limits sightlines. We’re seeing many drivers running the stop signs, and it’s clear we need to calm traffic and provide a safer crossing between Arlington and Maryland. I believe a lighted four-way stop at Ethelbert and Westminster is far enough from other intersections to meet the necessary criteria.
Both motions will be considered at the Standing Policy Committee on Public Works on April 14, 2025:
- Item 11: Ellice and Erin
- Item 12: Westminster and Ethelbert
You can find the agenda at the following link:
Standing Policy Committee Agenda – April 14, 2025
https://www.winnipeg.ca/city-governance/mayor-council/council-committee-meetings/participate-meeting
