News release

A Step Forward in Crosswalk Safety

Transportation and Public Works (to Oct. 2007)

A working group that will present recommendations to improve crosswalk safety in Nova Scotia is ready to begin its work.

Angus MacIsaac, Minister of Transportation and Public Works, and Halifax Regional Municipality Mayor Peter Kelly have named 11 members to the joint working group on crosswalk safety. The group has representatives of both governments, enforcement agencies and others interested in pedestrian safety.

"We've assembled the right players with the combined knowledge to improve crosswalk safety in Nova Scotia," said Mr. MacIsaac. "Their efforts will help us take the right steps in making crosswalks safer for pedestrians and motorists alike."

"I am confident that the thorough review and focused discussions of this working group will result in recommendations that will lead to greater pedestrian safety," said Mayor Peter Kelly. "I thank the chamber for the work already done through the forum they sponsored. I look forward to the report and implementation."

Mr. MacIsaac and Mr. Kelly have tasked the working group, co-chaired by Transportation and Public Works and the Halifax Regional Municipality, with producing a progress report by the end of July, and a final report in November. Amendments to legislation, if required, are expected to be ready for the fall sitting of the legislature.

In addition, the working group will:

  • review pedestrian safety reports, including a report from the Halifax Chamber of Commerce crosswalk safety and awareness forum held in January;
  • examine recent provincial pedestrian and crosswalk crash statistics;
  • document relevant past and current rules, programs and practices that support crosswalk safety;
  • schedule presentations, research, studies or other work to address knowledge gaps; and
  • complete a report with recommendations.

Nova Scotians can send comments and suggestions on crosswalk safety to: Joint Crosswalk Safety Working Group, c/o Department of Transportation and Public Works, P.O. Box 186, Halifax, N.S., B3J 2N2, or e-mail [email protected] or <[email protected].>

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