Municipalities around BC are taking action to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic introducing new measures — and in some cases changing local laws and regulations — to support physical distancing for residents in public spaces and retail areas. More>>
These exciting changes have been popping up all around BC in various locations and scales. From the north, to the interior, to the south coast, communities are taking action to make more space for pedestrians, in part through the reallocation of driving and parking lanes on our streets to meet the needs of people trying to meet health guidance related to physical spacing.
Here are 8 communities around BC that have reallocated space for pedestrians.
Castlegar
The City of Castlegar has initiated a six-month Open Streets Pilot Project in support of the business community by making streets, sidewalks, parking areas and open spaces available to assist businesses in meeting the physical distancing measures of the Province and to encourage residents to get outside and feel safe. More >>
Kitimat
A pilot project for a temporary outdoor plaza in the Lower City Centre parking lot. The 2020 Summer Plaza provides a place to gather in small groups whistle maintaining physical distancing. More>>
Merritt
Merrit’s Economic Recovery Plan has created opportunities for street parking and plaza parking to be converted into temporary patios to make room for distance-friendly dining at local restaurants. If this temporary plan results in favourable responses, there may be an opportunity to make these reallocations permanent! More >>
Nelson
The City has passed new legislation that provides flexibility in the use of on-street parking allowing for the increase of outdoor seating for restaurants and cafes. More>>
North Vancouver
By reallocating existing road space in key areas, the city is improving access to businesses while supporting the health and safety of residents with more space for physical distancing, encouraging safe walking, cycling and business operations. More>>
Oak Bay
The community has made amendments to the Streets and Traffic Bylaw to expedite the approval process for temporary sidewalk and parking stall patios. In addition, application and administrative fees for these applications will temporarily not be collected. More >>
Powell River
A bylaw has been passed to allow for sidewalk patios and parklets. Over a dozen patios have opened since the bylaw was passed earlier this summer. More >>
Vancouver
Temporary road closures, or ‘slow streets’ have been implemented in and around the city to limit vehicle access to select roads and paths to limit large gathering and help maintain a 2 metres of physical distance while exercising and getting fresh air. More>>
Let us know what your community is doing to make space for pedestrians and we will feature it on our What’s Happening Page! Contact us at living.streets@best.bc.ca
