Expanded sidewalks and more patio space part of plan for Yonge Street

UPDATE: City Councillors voted in favour of YongeTOmorrow, read the update here.

As part of the YongeTOmorrow revitalization plan, the City of Toronto has proposed to create pedestrian priority zones fitted with expanded sidewalks and additional patio space on Yonge Street.

Yonge Street is one of the city’s main arteries, booming with pedestrian activity, yet its narrow sidewalks limit the space available for pedestrians to walk. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the increased necessity for accessible, high-quality public space in the downtown core.

YongeTOmorrow is proposing a full redesign of Yonge Street starting at College Street and stretching south to Queen Street.

According to the plan, sidewalks would be expanded, vehicle lanes would be modified, restaurant patios would be extended, and streetscape elements would be added.

The plan also adds pedestrian priority zones along Yonge between 6 am and 1 am every day, with vehicle access restricted in zones situated between Walton and Elm Streets, and from Edward Street to Dundas Square.

The City of Toronto has stated that, “the water main beneath Yonge Street will soon need replacing and this construction provides an opportunity to consider a new street design to better serve everyone.”

The final report on the plan will be presented to the Infrastructure and Environment Committee for review on January 11, 2021, according to the City.