The police board has agreed to examine the idea of traffic-enforcement cameras at controlled crosswalks in Winnipeg to catch motorists breaking the law.

Police Chief Devon Clunis said he’s open to any measure that could improve safety.

Some critics, however, worry the cameras could be more about making the city money, rather than protecting pedestrians.

At the request of the city’s police board, the police service will study the pros and cons of setting up red-light type cameras at the crosswalks to ticket drivers who disobey the flashing lights.

“Drivers, motor vehicles are violating the rules,” said Coun. Ross Eadie (Mynarski).

The police chief said he’s already studying the issue.

He wants to know if putting cameras at the crossing will improve safety.

“In principle, it sounds like an excellent idea but, again, you have to get into the weeds and get into the practicality of implementing anything like this,” said Clunis.

South of the border, Washington, D.C. installed 16 crosswalk cameras to begin nabbing drivers this month.

Drivers in Winnipeg who spoke to CTV News Friday were split on the crosswalk camera idea.

“I think that’s a fantastic idea because there’s been several occasions where I’ve almost been mowed down,” said Amber Brown.

“Police are going to study it – probably means they need more money,” said Mike Calijiuri.

The chair of the police board echoes that concern. Coun. Scott Fielding is a staunch opponent of photo enforcement.

“At the end of the day, I want to hear what the police have to say. I want to make sure it would not be about revenue - that it would be about safety," said Fielding.

Mayor Sam Katz said increasing the amount of cameras at city intersections isn’t on his radar.

"I wasn't looking to do any expansion, personally, if that's what you're asking,” said Katz.

Before he decides whether to back the idea, Clunis also said the service will have to dig through the numbers to determine if an actual safety issue exists at crosswalks.

The police service has 60 days to come back with a report to the police board.

- with a report from Jeff Keele