A crosswalk will soon be installed between the Northern Lights Regional Health Centre and Willow Square Continuing Care Centre.

Wood Buffalo council met virtually on Tuesday where they approved spending $170,000 on the path.

Mayor Don Scott, who brought the idea forward, tells Mix News he’s been told many residents at Willow Square have mobility issues and need an easy way to get to the hospital.

“There is a crosswalk if you go in a different direction but a more convenient crosswalk makes sense.”

The crosswalk mentioned is the intersection of Franklin Avenue and Hospital Street.

Scott says there used to be one closer to the NLRHC, however, it was removed as it was barely being used.

There’s also other benefits potentially coming from the project.

“We’ve also heard from the leadership of the hospital that it will provide additional parking for the hospital,” added Scott.

He notes there are also multiple schools within walking distance which means students and staff could also take advantage.

The project is expected to be finished sometime in September.

In the meantime, traffic can expect delays if traveling along Hospital Street.