Vancouver’s pedestrian scramble pilot goes live at Granville and Robson

Crossing the street at one of downtown Vancouver’s busiest intersections will look a little different from Tuesday, as the city activates a pedestrian scramble at Robson and Granville streets.

When the walk light turns on, pedestrians will now be able to cross in all directions, including diagonally.

Last year, City of Vancouver staff were asked to identify the best intersection to pilot the scramble crossing which already exists in big cities around the world — most famously known at the Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo.

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“This is meant to enhance pedestrian safety, and also generate some buzz and energy at this corner of Granville and Robson,” city Coun. Peter Meiszner told CityNews Vancouver.

Crossing the street diagonally also shortens the distance and time in which pedestrians have to cross. The city has also installed audio cues and tactile stripes for those with accessibility needs.

“[It’s] just meant to make it easier for pedestrians to get around, quicker, more convenient, and also safer. With traditional intersections, there’s a lot of conflict when vehicles are turning and pedestrians are walking, so this really eliminates that,” Meiszner added.

If the pilot is successful, Meiszner says more scramble crosswalks could pop up at other busy intersections across the city.

“Maybe next year we’ll look at some additional locations. There’s lots of suggestions like Granville and Georgia. Broadway and Cambie could be another candidate,” he added.