Major Toronto street could be transformed into car-free pedestrian zone this summer

Toronto's Church-Wellesley Village could look very different this summer, as a new, seasonal pedestrianization pilot project aims to transform the vibrant neighbourhood into a safer public space for pedestrians, local businesses, and the 2SLGBTQ+ community. 

The initiative was brought forward by Toronto Centre Councillor Chris Moise in partnership with the Church-Wellesley BIA. The project is designed to temporarily close Church Street to vehicle traffic from Wellesley Street East to Alexander Street, while keeping the east-west corridors open. 

The proposed project coincides with two milestones for the community, namely the 50th anniversary of The 519, a cornerstone community centre for the Village, as well as the long-anticipated Cultural District destination for the neighbourhood coming in June. 

The project's map. Credit: Rodney Chan.

Moise writes that the project is intended to create safer conditions for pedestrians, support local businesses, and open up valuable public space for community events throughout the summer. 

According to Moise, the project was inspired by successful models in other cities, including Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest in Montreal. "Taking Montreal's lead, we want to begin piloting seasonal pedestrianization on Church Street to help inform the design and operations of the reconstruction," he writes. 

The project is also being limited to just two blocks to help manage costs, address community concerns, and maximize the likelihood of the pilot's success. The estimated cost of the project is between $50,000 and $80,000, with funding expected to come from sponsorships and grants. 

The planning phase will continue through this May, with key dates including  Toronto and East York Community Council Approval on April 30, followed by City Council consideration and approval on May 20. If approved, the pilot would run from June 19 to Aug. 21 this summer. 

Following the summer activation, the City plans to host a debrief and evaluation period in November to assess the project's outcomes and community feedback. 

Local residents and community members are being encouraged to weigh in on the proposal by taking a survey or signing the petition in support of pedestrianizing Church Street.