Topsail Road pedway a no go, says city committee

The City of St. John's policeand traffic committee hasvoted against a proposed pedway on Topsail Road between Waterford Valley High and the Village Mall.

• St. John's considers 4-way red light on Topsail Road for pedestrian safety

The idea gained momentum when a teenagerdied after being knocked down by a caron a busy section of the road in February.

The incident happenedbefore the new high school opened. The intersection near the schoolhas since become amajor route for students.

The city, however, said its research shows thatpedwaysthat don't connect two buildingsaren't often used.

"I sensed that the votes simply weren't at the table," CouncillorArt Puddister said.

Instead, a recommendation has been made to reprogram traffic lights on Topsail Road and Hamlyn Road to give pedestrians extra time to cross the street.

Deputy Mayor Ron Ellsworth said many schools in the city face similar challenges.

"If we're going to spend some time and energy evaluating pedways, I would like it done so that all school communities are included," he said.

The recommendation will be reviewed by the full city council on Monday.