Pedestrian Crossover (PXO) Pilot Program

The Town of Newmarket is continuously working to improve pedestrian safety through the installation of PXOs.

A Pedestrian Crossover (PXO) is a designated crossing location where vehicles must stop to allow pedestrians to cross. These crossings give pedestrians the legal right-of-way and make it safer and easier to cross streets.

As part of a Pilot Program, the Town will be installing its first PXO (Type B) at Gorham St & Muriel St, with installation scheduled for July-Aug 2025. The pilot project will help the Town evaluate the effectiveness of PXOs in Newmarket.

Under Ontario's Highway Traffic Act, drivers who fail to stop for pedestrians at PXOs can face fines up to $1,000 and 4 demerit points.

Types of PXOs

There are different types of PXOs, as defined by the Ontario Traffic Manual (OTM Book 15). The selection of the PXO type during planning is based on factors such as traffic volume and roadway width.

A description of each PXO type is provided below.

Type B PXO - Type B Pedestrian Crossovers include side-mounted and overhead-mounted signs, pavement markings, and flashing beacons with push buttons.

Type C PXO - Type C Crossovers feature side-mounted signs, pavement markings, and flashing beacons with push buttons, but without overhead signs.

Type D PXO - Type D Crossovers use side-mounted signs and pavement markings only, with no flashing beacons.

How to Use a PXO

For Drivers:

Stop before the yield line (shark teeth) when a pedestrian is waiting or crossing at PXO
Remain stopped until the pedestrian has fully crossed
Failing to yield can result in fines up to $1,000 and 4 demerit points

For Pedestrians:

Stand next to "stop for pedestrians" sign
Press the push button (if present)
Wait until drivers fully stop
Make eye contact with drivers
Cross safely

For Cyclists:

Dismount and stand next to "stop for pedestrians" sign
Press the push button (if present)
Wait until drivers fully stop
Make eye contact with drivers
Cross the road by walking alongside the bicycle
Cyclists on the road approaching the PXO must stop behind the yield line (shark teeth) when pedestrians are waiting to cross or already crossing - just like drivers.

PXO Signage/Pavement markings and What It Means

Pedestrian Crossovers are marked with a variety of signs to guide both drivers and pedestrians. Each sign plays an important role in ensuring everyone understands how to share the road safely.

Understanding these signs helps improve safety for all road users.

	STOP FOR PEDESTRIANS Signs These signs are installed at every Pedestrian Crossover to remind drivers of their legal obligation to stop when a pedestrian is present in the crossing area.
	NO PASSING Signs "No Passing Here to Crossing" signs are placed approximately 30 metres before the Pedestrian Crossover. Drivers are not permitted to pass any vehicle to ensure clear visibility and safety for pedestrians crossing.
	PEDESTRIAN CROSSOVER AHEAD Signs These signs are placed between 50 to 130 metres before the Pedestrian Crossover to alert drivers that they are approaching a PXO location and should prepare to stop if pedestrians are present.
	PUSH BUTTON Instructions At Pedestrian Crossovers with flashing beacons (Type B & C PXOs), instructional signs are posted to guide pedestrians. These signs remind users to press the button, wait for vehicles to stop fully, and ensure it is safe to cross.
	Yield to Pedestrian Line The Yield to Pedestrian Line (marked by a series of white triangles, known as "shark teeth") shows drivers where they must stop to allow pedestrians to cross safely.

For more information about the Town's PXO pilot program, please email [email protected] or call 905-895-5193.