WINNIPEG, Manitoba — The City of Winnipeg is moving ahead with plans to install additional flashing warning lights at a pedestrian crossing on Henderson Highway where 32-year-old Gabe Beardy was fatally struck by a vehicle earlier this year.
The planned safety improvements will take place at the intersection of Henderson Highway and Neil Avenue, where Beardy was hit while crossing the busy roadway on April 19. The collision claimed the life of the father of four from Lake St. Martin First Nation.
The additional equipment, known as rear-facing flashing beacons or backflashers, is designed to alert motorists approaching from the opposite direction when pedestrians activate the crossing signals.
The city has indicated that installation is being prioritized, with the new lights expected to be in place before the end of 2026.
Researchers Identify Safety Gaps at Crossing
The planned improvements follow concerns raised by traffic safety researchers who say the intersection has lacked important warning features for years.
Curt Pankratz, an associate professor at the University of Winnipeg who studies traffic engineering and transportation policy, and independent researcher Chris Sweryda have questioned why the crossing does not have flashing lights facing motorists travelling in both directions.
They explained that when pedestrians activate the existing crossing signals, drivers approaching from the opposite direction may not receive an adequate warning that someone is preparing to cross.
The researchers described the missing lights as a significant safety gap, particularly on a busy, multi-lane road where motorists may have limited time to react.
According to their records, Winnipeg has 185 pedestrian crossings equipped with flashing lights, but only two lack the rear-facing warning beacons. The Henderson Highway and Neil Avenue crossing is among them.
City Reviews Pedestrian Crossing Safety
The city’s public works department said rear-facing flashing beacons are generally installed during major road reconstruction projects.
However, officials confirmed that the installation at Henderson Highway and Neil Avenue is being prioritized. The city is also reviewing other pedestrian crossings to determine where similar improvements could strengthen road safety.
Sweryda said he first identified concerns about the intersection in 2012 and has repeatedly raised questions about the consistency of pedestrian crossing infrastructure across Winnipeg.
Family Continues Seeking Answers
Beardy’s family has also called for greater transparency about the circumstances surrounding his death.
His uncle, Brad Beardy, previously questioned whether the pedestrian crossing lights had been activated before the collision and urged authorities to explain what happened.
Winnipeg police said the incident was considered non-criminal and no charges were laid.
The planned improvements represent an effort to address concerns about pedestrian visibility and driver awareness at the intersection.
For the family, however, the loss remains deeply personal. They hope the additional warning lights will help prevent another family from experiencing a similar tragedy.
Swifteradio.com
