Pedestrians at the intersection of Yonge and Dundas Streets can now cross the road in any direction they please, thanks to the corner's new designation as a "pedestrian scramble."
Also known as a "Barnes Dance," after one of its first proponents, or "Pedestrian Priority Phase" in City Hall jargon, the designation allows pedestrians to cross the roadway in all directions, including diagonally.
While pedestrians are crossing, all motor vehicle traffic comes to a stop, making it safe for people to criss-cross to the other side.
The Yonge and Dundas intersection is Toronto's first scramble, and began operation on Thursday morning with a launch ceremony hosted by local politicians.
This type of crossing system has been a major success around the world.
In countries such as Japan, the United Kingdom and Australia, pedestrians have been doing the scramble for years.
Vancouver and Montreal also use the system at selected intersections.
Torontonians who spoke with CP24 on Thursday think the scramble is a great idea.
"It was weird the first time I tried it, but I like it," said Frank Faywell.
One man says the move shows the importance the city gives to pedestrian safety.
"I come from a city, Montreal, where pedestrians are second-class citizens," he says. "I personally experienced this in Washington, DC and it works fantastically."
The city is considering similar changes to the Yonge and Bloor intersection, as well as at Bay and Dundas Streets.
