By Canadian Press

Cities grapple over whether to give more room to pedestrians to spread out

Apr 6, 2020 | 11:30 AM

OTTAWA — Battles are brewing in some cities over use of increasingly limited public space, as local governments struggle with whether to give more room for pedestrians to spread out.

Canada’s national public-health authority considers taking a walk outside a low risk activity for healthy people, as long as they keep a two-metre distance from one another.

But that’s not always possible, especially on urban sidewalks that aren’t wide enough to let two people pass each other at a safe distance.

It’s particularly challenging considering most cities have closed parks and encouraged people to stay in their own neighbourhoods.

Some cities, like Calgary and London, Ont., have closed some road lanes to give pedestrians more room to manoeuvre on slimmer sidewalks.

shiny new toy

'This is a great day for Qualicum Beach:' New waterfront walkway/viewing platform opens

1h ago

calls to action

'Stronger together:' Sisters in Spirit Ceremony at VIU honours missing and murdered Indigenous women

5h ago

election forum

Nanaimo-Lantzville candidates turn up heat at forum with tight race expected

12h ago

Whereas Ottawa’s mayor says giving pedestrians more room will draw more people out and has instead urged residents to stay inside.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on April 6, 2020.

The Canadian Press