Transforming Urban Spaces: The Rise of Pedestrianized Streets in Canada
It’s not every day that traffic barriers symbolize something beyond mere construction detours, but the bollards and concrete slabs obstructing vehicles on several roads in Montreal this summer serve a dual purpose. These installations represent a burgeoning trend in urban design: the creation of pedestrianized streets.
Montreal has emerged as a leading example of this movement in Canada. Mayor Valérie Plante has lauded the city’s seasonal pedestrian streets, which are known for their vibrant mix of outdoor terraces, engaging activities, and cultural events. These streets have become a quintessential part of the Montreal summer experience, drawing both locals and tourists alike.
Other Canadian cities are increasingly captivated by the potential of pedestrian-only streets. This summer, as part of a pilot initiative, Vancouver transformed Water Street in its bustling Gastown district into a pedestrian zone, allowing visitors to explore the area without the distraction of vehicle traffic. Meanwhile, Halifax made headlines in 2017 by claiming to be the first city in the Atlantic provinces to create a streetscape project that harmoniously integrated patios, pedestrians, and vehicles.
In Toronto, the city launched its outdoor dining program, CaféTO, just three months after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative proved so successful that it was made a permanent fixture, further emphasizing the city’s commitment to outdoor urban spaces.
Before the pandemic, advocating for car-free street projects often sparked fierce debates with local businesses. Many retailers viewed traffic restrictions as detrimental to their sales, fearing that the lack of accessible parking would deter customers who typically arrive by car. This apprehension often led to tense negotiations between business owners and city officials, who had to balance economic concerns with their urban planning goals, including adapting dining regulations and managing traffic flow.
However, the pandemic shifted perspectives dramatically. The necessity of outdoor operations during health restrictions encouraged many businesses to reconsider their relationship with the street. According to Kelly Gregg, a professor of urban planning at the University at Buffalo, this shift allowed businesses to begin viewing the street as more than merely a place for parking, opening up new possibilities for community engagement and urban vitality.
