Fence put up around metal box on busy Toronto sidewalk that some residents deemed head-bumping hazard

A metal box at a busy Toronto intersection has reportedly sparked concern from some area residents, who say it is in a prime spot for pedestrians to hit their heads on it. The city says the box is staying put for now, instead opting to have a fence put up around it.

A city spokesperson tells CityNews staff were notified of the potential head-bumping hazard last week and went to look at the electrical box at Bloor Street West and Spadina Avenue.

A large metal cabinet is mounted to a pole outside a bank on the northeast corner of the intersection. The box in question, a smaller box that is about head height high for the average person, is mounted onto the side of the larger structure.

Concerned residents told the Toronto Star the side box is installed at the perfect height for distracted pedestrians to hit their heads, with one calling it “concussion central.”

The city says the temporary box contains traffic control signals for an ongoing construction project on Bloor between Spadina and Avenue Road.

“All signalized intersections have traffic controllers in a box as a city requirement and standard,” the City says. “When permanent, the box sits on the ground near the intersection.”

The city says the box needs to be in its current location so traffic signal operators have easy access, and so police are able to quickly access it in case of emergencies.

City staff confirm the signal box will remain in place until its expected completion in August 2024. At that time, permanent signals will be installed at the intersection.

After staff attended the intersection last week, the contractor has put up a steel fence around the entire metal structure and pole.

“The city is making every effort to ensure the safety of pedestrians while the box is in its temporary position,” reads a statement.

“The city has implemented a number of measures to enhance pedestrians’ awareness of the box including barrels and, more recently, a fence.”

Construction in the area is now paused and will resume in April following a winter shutdown.

Correction: A previous version of this story said pedestrians were hitting their heads on the signal box. The article has been updated to say there were only concerns that the metal box is located in a spot where pedestrians could potentially hit their heads.