To: Mayor John Tory
Open Streets for People
Torontonians are doing their best to stay home but they need safe spaces for exercise to stay physically and mentally fit. Mr. Mayor, please close the curb lanes of some of the busiest pedestrian streets in Toronto to allow space for walkers and cyclists to be active while staying physically distant. Let's set aside the curb lanes of Yonge St, University Avenue, Adelaide St. and Bloor-Danforth for active transportation and exercise.
Why is this important?
As nicer weather is approaching many people in our city do not have adequate space near their homes to be outside safely. Many other cities around the world have taken the step of limiting car traffic to make more space for pedestrians and cyclists. Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf said in a statement. “Closing roads means opening up our city. It gives our residents the opportunity to get outside and walk, bicycle, or run through their neighbourhoods and get around in a safer way.” Many of us in Toronto are having to walk in active car lanes in order to stay 6 feet apart from others. Cycling is an excellent way of staying physically distant but more safe spaces are needed for cyclists, especially children. Getting daily exercise shouldn't mean taking your life in your hands, even during a pandemic.