In response to multiple jaywalking incidents, which led to several deaths on the streets of the Greater Toronto Area, the Toronto Police Service launched a pedestrian safety blitz initiative last week.

Police have emphasized pedestrians must obey the law, but walkers and drivers alike must act defensively and appropriately to ensure the safety of the roads for both parties.

“[Jaywalking is] not a problem at Western [though it is a] big problem on city streets,” Elgin Austen, director of campus police, said.

According to Austen, Western’s campus was designed in the 1800s before cars were a factor. He added students need to cross and “vehicles need to harmonize,” in order to maintain a safe campus.

As one of the few campuses with traffic lights, Western is in a unique situation. According to Austen, the system of cross walks and stop signs help to keep order on campus streets.

Western is launching its own program next week, which will involve several colourful signs to remind drivers to pay attention to pedestrians.

Austen emphasized the Western streets are safe for pedestrians walking and safe for drivers driving, and police will do whatever they can to help people feel safe on campus.

—Katie Hetherman