Yonge & Bloor get 'scramble' crossing

Pedestrians at the busy intersection of Yonge and Bloor streets in downtown Toronto will be able to cross diagonally, beginning Friday.

The meeting point of two of Toronto's major streets will be the second so-called "scramble" intersection in Toronto. Vehicle traffic will be periodically stopped by red lights in all four directions, and people can cross in any direction, including diagonally.

A similar system was introduced at the intersection of Yonge Street and Dundas Street in August 2008.

"Installing a pedestrian priority intersection at this new location reinforces Toronto’s commitment to creating a pedestrian-friendly environment," Mayor David Miller said in a release.

"Giving priority to pedestrians promotes pedestrian safety and convenience, and helps renew our urban environment."

The city said it will adjust the timing of the traffic lights at the intersection and add signals for the visually impaired.