Calls grow for footbridge over Manning Drive in northeast Edmonton

BUT A 56-YEAR-OLD MAN IN THE FIRST CRASH DID DIE AS A RESULT
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    Footbridge over Edmonton’s Manning Drive would make the area safer and more accessible: City councillor. Hiba Kamal-Choufi has the story.

    Residents in northeast Edmonton say it’s time for a pedestrian footbridge over a busy stretch of Manning Drive.

    The shopping plaza is home to more than 50 businesses, including restaurants, grocery stores and a movie theatre. But right now, the only designated pedestrian crossing is at 153rd Avenue — a long walk for many.

    “I think it would be a good idea for safety,” said Jesse, a local resident. “I know I’ve jaywalked before, and it isn’t safe — you have to run across the road.”

    Coun. Aaron Paquette, who represents Ward Dene, said residents in surrounding neighbourhoods like Cy Becker and Brintnell have been asking the city to act for years.

    “What we’re seeing is people jaywalking across a busy freeway — which you never want to see,” said Paquette. “People want to be able to cross safely without having to walk blocks and blocks to the nearest crossing. This is a way to fix that without slowing traffic on Manning.”

    “I think it’s really unsafe, and having a solution like that would be super beneficial to everybody,” said Cole, an Edmontonian who frequents the area.

    City council has passed a motion to begin exploring the cost of a footbridge. The vote was unanimous.

    “I think it’s a beautiful idea,” said Roxanne, another Edmonton resident. “It keeps everyone safer and keeps traffic flowing. Less accidents, I’d say — absolutely.”

    Paquette said the design would prioritize accessibility.

    “I don’t think there would be stairs,” said Paquette. “It’ll probably be a long ramp — either straight or curved — that’s easier to navigate for people in wheelchairs or seniors with walkers.”

    The bridge could cost between $8 million and $10 million. Paquette said some local developers have already agreed to help fund the project.

    “I think safety comes at no cost,” said Cole.

    “If it’s saving someone’s life, then that’s more important than how much it costs,” said Jesse.

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