As with most Canadian cities, Saskatoon uses a variety of devices to improve the ability for pedestrians to safely cross streets. Pedestrians have the right-of-way over traffic at all intersections, whether crosswalks are marked or not.

Most crosswalks do not have any special signing or markings. It is desirable to provide improved pedestrian crossings at locations where the following factors, either singly or in combination, are evident:

• Substantial traffic volumes;
• High traffic speeds;
• Wide streets and long crossing distances;
• High pedestrian activity (especially children and seniors); and
• Poor visibility.

A basic crosswalk (standard crosswalk) is marked with Pedestrian Crossing signs and painted lines. These markings may be used alone or in combination with other traffic control measures and/or roadway features to assist in creating a safe crossing environment for pedestrians.

Other types of crosswalks include:

• Zebra Crosswalk – basic pedestrian signage and zebra (zigzag) paint markings.
• Pedestrian Corridor – a zebra crosswalk and an overhead illuminated crosswalk sign, crosswalk illumination and "Crosswalk Ahead" warning signs.
• Active Pedestrian Corridor – a pedestrian corridor with pedestrian activated overhead or side-mounted amber flashing lights.
• Pedestrian Actuated Signals – a half traffic signal actuated by pedestrians.
• Traffic Signals.
• Pedestrian Overpasses or Underpass Tunnels.
• Walkways.

30-second video on pedestrians crossing intersections:

  PLAY:  5mg

Traffic Calming may be used in conjunction with pedestrian crossing facilities if traffic volumes and speeds are creating a potential safety hazard for pedestrians, as determined by the Traffic Engineering Section. Visit the Neighbourhood Traffic link on the left for more information.

Many pedestrian crosswalks are located adjacent to school sites or across busy streets. The Traffic Management Group works together with Saskatoon Police Services, schools and Community Associations to identify important crosswalk locations. Requests are also taken from the public. Upon receiving a request, a review of the crossing location is undertaken. This often involves a count of the pedestrian and vehicular traffic volumes during peak pedestrian hours, and site observations of pedestrian and motorist behaviour. To initiate a review of a crosswalk where you have difficulty crossing the street click here.