Downtown Pedestrian Mall Event Ending on September 5

The Downtown Pedestrian Mall (DPM) is a seasonal event and is planned annually from June 30 to Labour Day, to coincide with the peak of tourism season, school closures, and staycations. The event will end at 10 p.m. on Mon. Sept. 5 as planned.
 
Water Street will re-open to motor vehicle traffic at noon on Tue. Sept. 6.

Parklets are permitted to remain in place until Oct. 31.

Businesses Inside and Outside the Event
Limiting the DPM event to 9 weeks provides a balance for businesses who do not feel they benefit from it, and those that do.

During the first two years of the event, staff and Council heard from some business owners within the DPM footprint who indicated that they do not want the dates extended, as they feel it negatively impacts their business.

It is also important to consider feedback from businesses outside of the road closure area, who have stated that they experience a significant increase in business in September (2020 and 2021) once the event ends.

Budget and Staffing
Budget is a factor to consider, as the cost of barricade security and cleaning staff is significant. Special Events staff are working within the allotted budget for the 2022 season.

Additionally, many cleaning and security staff, provided by our contractor, are returning to post-secondary in September and are therefore no longer available to work.

Delivery Services
Delivery services are also challenged by the road closures and parking restrictions that are in place, and this would continue to be an issue during cooler weather and increased precipitation that we often experience in the fall.

Parklet Program
The parklet program (allowing businesses to build outdoor decks) was extended in 2021 and 2022 to allow restaurants and other business to provide outdoor service from the Victoria Day Holiday in May, until October 31. When cooler weather sets in during September and October, we often see a decrease in the number of parklets.  

Other Jurisdictions
In other cities, there are road closures and pedestrian areas that are closed for an extended period; however, these streets are generally short, often just one block in length, and they are specifically designed with infrastructure to accommodate year-round operation.