Kitchener creates new pedestrian-friendly spaces downtown
Posted Jul 24, 2020 04:00:00 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Given the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to physically distance, the City of Kitchener is trying something new to try and encourage residents to support restaurants and other shops in the downtown core.
It has already converted Gaukel and Ontario Street into open-air patios, featuring picnic tables and strings of lights, and is planning to shutdown a portion of King Street as well.
King will be closed to traffic between Francis and Water Street, beginning July 30 to allow for expanded restaurant patios and plenty of space for shoppers and diners.
The city plans to do so until at least September.
“The pandemic is an opportunity to innovate and reimagine what our downtown can look like,” Ward 9 Councillor Debbie Chapman said in a release.
“The conversion of Gaukel and Ontario streets into pedestrian-first, welcoming spaces will encourage residents to support downtown businesses and provide space for physically-distant socializing. The closure of King will allow restaurants to provide more outdoor patio spaces and creative uses of the space.” she added.
As emergency measures are lifted, they're also looking at adding live music and performances.
“Pedestrians are all on a different journey; some are not ready to go inside. We want everyone to feel welcome Downtown. Businesses want their customers to feel confident they can shop, dine, and visit safely in following public health guidelines.” added Downtown Kitchener BIA Executive Director Linda Jutzi.
The new spaces are available for use seven days a week.
