Leading Pedestrian Intervals

Background

A small change is making a big improvement to pedestrian safety Downtown. 

We are implementing Leading Pedestrian Intervals (LPIs) at more than 100 Downtown intersections. This signal timing change provides pedestrians five seconds to start crossing the street before the light turns green for vehicles. 

This allow pedestrians to be more visible in the intersection, which reduces the risk of a vehicle-pedestrian collision. They are a cost-effective and proven way to make intersections safer for both pedestrians and drivers.

How Leading Pedestrian Intervals (LPIs) work

LPIs only change signal timing at an intersection. The signals for vehicles and pedestrians will look the same as they always have. Here is how the signal timing works:

Phase 1: Pedestrians only

Pedestrians get five seconds to begin crossing the street.

Image
A diagram that shows both vehicles and pedestrians at an east-west intersection. The light is red for vehicles, but pedestrians have a walk signal.

Phase 2: Pedestrians and vehicles

Vehicles get a green light. Vehicles that are turning yield to pedestrians who are crossing the street. Pedestrians should always look both ways before crossing.

Image
Both vehicles and pedestrians are moving east-west through a signalized intersection. Pedestrians are shown further head in the intersection than they would be had they not had a head start.

Tips for LPIs

It will take some time for everyone to get used to LPIs. Here are some simple tips for walking and driving at intersections with an LPI:

  • Be careful turning right on red: If you’re driving and want to turn right on red, always stop and check for pedestrians. They may have the right-of-way with a ‘walk’ signal, while drivers still have a red light. Be extra careful, look both ways, and let pedestrians cross first.
  • Look both ways: Whether you’re walking, biking, or driving, make sure to look both ways before crossing the street.  

Updates

Leading Pedestrian Intervals will begin appearing at Downtown intersections on Monday, March 10. 

 

Was this information helpful?

How can we make this web page better?

Information collected will be used to improve our website. Do not use this form to submit a request for service or information because it will not be forwarded to departments for response. To submit a request for service or information, contact 311.

This form is not intended to collect personal information; however, any personal information you choose to include in your comments is collected by the City of Winnipeg under the authority of section 36(1)(b) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act for the purpose of improving our website and will not be used or disclosed for any other purposes, except as authorized by law. Contact the Corporate Access and Privacy Officer by mail (City Clerk’s Department, Susan A. Thompson Building, 510 Main Street, Winnipeg MB, R3B 1B9) or by telephone (311) if you have any questions about the collection of this information.