North side pedestrians get break at Algoma and Cornwall

Pedestrians on the City of Thunder Bay's north side will have an easier time crossing at a busy corner.

The first ever pedestrian crossover was activated this morning at Algoma and Cornwall.

A pedestrian crossover is a place where people can safely cross the road, and motorists and cyclists are legally required to stop and wait for them.

• New pedestrian crossover, student crossing rules require drivers to wait

It wasn't a rushed decision, either, said Adam Krupper, mobility coordinator for the city.

"We did a lot of analysis, looking at over 30 locations. Narrowing it down to five locations and then council deciding on what location they want," Krupper said.

After the location was picked, engineers worked on the planning, design and installation.

"[We were finished] within a three month period," Krupper said, "it happened. It's working really well. And we are very pleased."

Kruppersaid changes to the Ontario Highway Traffic Act in January of this year allowed municipalities to install new types of pedestrian crossovers.

Knowing it may take a while for drivers to grow accustomed to the new street features, Thunder Bay police acting traffic Sergeant John Toneguzzi reminded motorists who don't obey the pedestrian crossoverthey'll be fined $180 fine and lose up to three demerit points.