A new pedestrian-priority zone is coming to Government Street this summer as part of the Build Back Victoria campaign amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The spring and summer portion of the program will launch in early June and include new streetscape features as part of the new Government Street pedestrian-priority zone.
The zone will span from Humboldt Street to View Street and be closed off to traffic between noon and 10 p.m. daily.
“The timed daily closure will create inviting public space for pedestrians, cyclists and pedicabs in the afternoon and evening while still allowing for vehicle circulation, commercial pick-up and delivery functions on Government Street each morning,” reads a statement from the City.
The City adds that New loading zones and accessible parking stalls will also be installed on and adjacent to the corridor.
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Council has also directed staff to introduce a requirement for accessibility in flex spaces to take effect by July 1, 2021.
Features in this pedestrian-priority zone will include “wood picnic tables and benches, planters and flowers, gateway improvements, signage and playable street elements like public seating that doubles as performance platforms.”
The Build Back Victoria program is aimed at helping businesses adapt to the new-normal amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The City has implemented a number of initiatives to support local businesses and the community to reopen and recover, dating back to last summer.
“Build Back Victoria is about supporting businesses and creating more pedestrian-friendly public space for residents and visitors when they return,” said Mayor Lisa Helps. “Providing quick and flexible permits through the Build Back Victoria program is supporting economic recovery for businesses and allows them to safely operate in public spaces in a way that is bringing more vibrancy and vitality to the city. The program is not only helping businesses weather the pandemic, it’s also shown us what’s possible for our city and the public spaces we all share.”
The City says it has issued over 150 temporary permits to businesses as part of the initiative and has been extended to October 2021.
Learn more about the Build Back Victoria program at victoria.ca/bizresources.
Graham Cox
