Impacts

Improve safety and accessibility

In many areas along Yonge Street, the sidewalks are dangerously overcrowded. Currently, 50-75% of people using Yonge Street are pedestrians but have less than 25% of the space. Population and employment are forecast to double, which will further increase pedestrian congestion. Wider sidewalks will make it possible for people using strollers or mobility devices, or even those carrying shopping bags to pass safely and comfortably by each other.

Enhance social equity

In such a densely populated part of the city, where housing sizes are getting smaller, the streets and sidewalks are places to congregate, relax, and enjoy being out in public. We have to focus on creating great public spaces that serve individuals and groups large and small, and of all ages. A pedestrianized street would empower local organizations who maintain and program our public spaces to help us ensure that these spaces will remain functional and useful for all users.

Support economic vitality

For Toronto to continue to compete for top talent and investment, we need to create the human-scale, walkable neighbourhoods in our downtown core that today’s investors and workforce are looking for. As people are required or choose to work from home, creating complete neighbourhoods for residents will be critical for Downtown Toronto’s economic recovery. Cities across the world are creating economic development strategies and investing in efficient public transportation to enhance the flow of people and goods, and to provide usable public spaces, parks and walkable communities. Despite popular misconceptions, pedestrians, cyclists, and transit riders generally spend more money at local retail businesses than people who drive cars.

A pedestrianized Yonge street could support more festivals and music performances, supporting a tourism industry that generated $6.7 billion in visitor spending, while bringing in 28 million visitors to Toronto in2019. A pedestrianized Yonge St could make it more cost-effective for festivals to expand, and make Yonge street a globally recognized festival and destination street.

Be flexible and cost effective

Narrow streets cost less to build and maintain. Using good-quality, durable materials can significantly reduce maintenance costs. Green alleys or streets and tree planting are estimated to be 3-6 times more effective in managing stormwater and reduce hard infrastructure costs. Redesigning the street effectively now means that as demographics and usages change, we can adapt quickly.

Promote healthy and active living

Making it safer and easier for people to walk, run and cycle in our cities has a public health benefit. The simple act of walking is one of the easiest and most affordable ways for people to increase physical activity. Higher walkability in neighbourhoods is associated with decreased rates of obesity and diabetes. In addition to traditional health benefits, increased social interaction can improve individuals’ health and happiness.