Pedestrian crossover under construction outside Avon Theatre

Tom Edge stands near the intersection of Downie Street and George Street in Stratford, where construction is underway outside the Avon Theatre for a new pedestrian crossover. Edge, who is blind, has advocated for improved crossing safety in the area for the past three years.

A new pedestrian crossover is coming to Downie Street to improve walkability in the downtown core.

Tom Edge, who lost his sight in 2022, has been pushing for a lighted crosswalk in the downtown core for the past three years. With construction now underway outside the Avon Theatre, that change is finally becoming a reality.

The City of Stratford confirmed that the work will result in a Type B, Level 2 pedestrian crossover (PXO), which includes a rapid-flashing beacon mounted above the crossover sign.

The city aims to have the project substantially completed by the end of next week to minimize disruption to theatre operations.

The tender for the project was approved on April 13. The crossover itself was identified for consideration in both the 2021 Downtown Traffic Study and the 2023 Transportation Master Plan.

“Stratford is a vibrant, walkable city, and there is no better place to experience that than downtown in the summer,” said Taylor Crinklaw, director of infrastructure services with the city.

“To support an active community, council has proactively funded studies and invested in infrastructure improvements that strengthen accessibility and pedestrian safety. This project is one of many identified in the city’s 10-year infrastructure planning forecast.”

For Edge, the need for a safe crossing on Downie Street has been both practical and urgent.

He said navigating the street without traffic signals or accessible crossing features has long been a challenge. Currently, the nearest safe crossing requires walking to Huron Street – a detour, he said, that can add significant time to even the shortest trip.

“One of the biggest obstacles is being able to cross a street where there is no signal,” said Edge. “Traffic is busy in Stratford. The only places I can cross are at traffic lights or crosswalks – and by that, I mean a lighted crosswalk where there’s a button, flashing lights and a beeping sound to indicate it’s time to walk.”

He said standard-marked crosswalks, such as the one outside city hall, are not usable for him due to the risk that drivers may fail to see or recognize his disability.

Because of that, a trip across the street can turn into a much longer journey.

“It can take me 15 to 20 minutes to walk to a safe crosswalk,” he said. “If I wanted to go somewhere across the street – say Foster’s for dinner – a three-minute walk suddenly becomes a 20-minute walk.”

Edge said the new crossover will benefit more than just those who are blind or visually impaired.

“This doesn’t only benefit those with disabilities, like myself, or someone in a wheelchair,” he said. “It also helps people pushing strollers or using walkers.”

Jamie Pritchard, general manager of the Downtown Stratford Business Improvement Area and local advocate for accessibility, also notes his excitement for the project.

“The BIA is very excited to see the installation of a new crosswalk at Downie and George,” he said. “This important addition will enhance safety and accessibility in our downtown, featuring a pedestrian signal to stop traffic and make crossing easier for everyone – particularly those with accessibility needs. The raised design will also help calm traffic around the clock, contributing to a safer, more welcoming environment for all.”

Despite the challenges, Edge said he feels supported by the community and has always been greeted by understanding and friendliness when discussing his concerns with City staff.

Living on Downie Street, he said he enjoys spending time at local businesses, including the Livery Yard, where staff often help him navigate the space. He added that many residents are mindful of his disability, offering help or stepping aside when needed.

As construction continues, Edge has a message for drivers.

“It’s important that everybody knows it exists and to expect it when they’re driving down Downie Street,” he said. “Don’t be surprised by it. Don’t try to beat it. When the lights are flashing, you’ve got to stop – someone may be ready to cross who can’t see you.”

Crinklaw also wants to remind drivers that those who fail to follow the rules at pedestrian crossovers can face fines of up to $1,000 and receive four demerit points.