Abstract Manager

Portage and Main is a major intersection located in downtown Winnipeg. Known as one of the most famous intersections in Canada, it is often referred to as the "crossroads of Canada" and more often as the coldest & windiest intersection in Canada. The intersection is historically significant and has been a central point in the city since the late 19th century. It is surrounded by some of Winnipeg's most prominent buildings and has been a focal point for various events and activities over the years. Despite its importance, the intersection has been closed to pedestrian traffic at street level since 1979, with pedestrians using an underground concourse. There have been ongoing discussions and debates about reopening the intersection to pedestrians ever since. In March of 2024, City Council decided to open the intersection to pedestrians by July 1, 2025.
Our presentation will touch on the decision to close the intersection to pedestrian traffic at street level in 1979, and to construct the underground concourse as an alternate route for pedestrians. This will be contrasted against the rationale to open the intersection in 2024 and the implications of this decision. 
We will touch on the transportation studies and options considered (scramble vs traditional pedestrian crossings, vehicle channelization, and placemaking).  A study completed in 2018 outlined the traffic implications which led to a plebiscite included during that year’s civic election.  Winnipeggers hotly debated the issue whether to open or leave the intersection closed.
We will present the complex engineering required, the coordination with the many utilities and stakeholders, and the surprises found in an intersection with more than 100 years of infrastructure buried beneath.
We will present a compare & contrast, (before vs after opening), comparing LOS for pedestrians, general traffic, and transit service. 
We will share some of the opinions of the site through printed media, recent social & digital media, and point out any trends in opinions.