Just read in this week's Coast that HRM's intention with the new jaywalking fine of ca. $700 is "to level the playing field." Are you kidding me? There's a HUGE power imbalance between wealthier car owners and pedestrians, in favour of those wielding automobiles. This disgusting fine punishes health-conscious, non-polluting, can't-afford-to-own-a-car nondrivers, and is obviously created by people who don't actually walk. As a lifelong nondriver, I jaywalk where I do because it is traffic-free in both directions and therefore safer. I find 4-way-stop intersections ambiguous (whose turn is it?) and terrifying, full of bad-tempered, impatient commuters. I've lost count of the times I've nearly been killed in 4-way-top intersections. Jaywalking is safer!! It shouldn't be, but the fact is--it IS safer. —Cites are for people, not cars