Toronto Residents Raise Concerns

Toronto residents are raising alarms about the dangerously narrow sidewalks on Avenue Road, highlighting a significant safety concern for pedestrians in the bustling city.

City's Avenue Road Study

The City of Toronto initiated the Avenue Road study back in 2019 with the aim of enhancing safety and mobility between Bloor Street West and St. Clair Avenue West. While the study was designed to tackle pressing traffic issues, it also comes as the city has no plans for full road reconstruction on Avenue Road for the next decade.

Recent Modifications and Sidewalk Issues

Recent modifications implemented in July have included the addition of on-street cycle tracks, two motor vehicle lanes in each direction, and extra turning lanes. Despite these upgrades, the most glaring issue remains the sidewalks. While buffer spaces have been created between sidewalks and motor vehicle lanes, many pedestrians feel these changes do not go far enough.

Intersection Improvements

The intersection of Davenport Road and Dupont Street has seen some improvements, including a new pedestrian crossing at Ramsden Park and an automated speed enforcement camera. Furthermore, the removal of pay-and-display parking machines aimed to create more space for pedestrians. However, the reality of the narrow sidewalks continues to overshadow these changes.

Public Outcry and Social Media Activism

Residents and pedestrian advocacy groups, like Walk Toronto, have taken to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to share striking images that highlight how "absurdly narrow" these sidewalks can be. Comments reflecting growing frustration fill the thread, with some residents stressing that additional safety measures are critically needed.

Concerns About Pedestrian Safety

"We're concerned that some drivers aren't deterred by the narrow sidewalks of Avenue Road," one user posted alongside a disturbing photo of a car that had mounted the sidewalk. Others expressed worries about the safety of cyclists navigating the congested streets.

Critique of Infrastructure Design

"This looks awful for cyclists," commented another user. "Those plastic sticks and those ugly concrete walks make a suicide pinch point." A different user chimed in, criticizing the design as "insane," stating the new pedestrian curb lanes are completely inaccessible for cyclists.

City's Response to Concerns

The city acknowledges these concerns, stating that any potential widening of sidewalks on Avenue Road would necessitate moving curbs, which could potentially disrupt underground infrastructure and utilities. They reassured the public that the city is committed to exploring sidewalk widening when a full reconstruction of Avenue Road is planned.

A Call for Action

As the dialogue surrounding Toronto’s pedestrian infrastructure continues, one thing remains clear: something must be done to address the pressing safety issues on Avenue Road. The residents deserve not just improved sidewalks but also a collective effort to create a safer, more accommodating urban environment for all. Will the City of Toronto respond effectively to this urgent call for action? Only time will tell.