Victoria’s Government Street pedestrian priority zone begins today

Government Street between Humbolt and View streets will become a pedestrian priority zone between noon and 10 p.m. starting Friday.

The street will be closed to vehicle traffic during those hours seven days a week to give pedestrians more room to shop and enjoy the area. New picnic tables, seating and planters have been installed along with pop-up surprise concerts to give entertainment.

“With patio culture in full swing downtown, the Downtown Victoria Business Association (DVBA) invites everyone to enjoy a vibrant Government Street as we emerge from a challenging time,” said Jeff Bray, Executive Director of the DVBA in a press release Friday.

The opening of the pedestrian zone is a part of the Build Back Victoria program, which aims to help businesses adjust to the new normal during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Build Back Victoria is about supporting businesses to recover from the pandemic and creating more pedestrian-friendly public spaces for people,” said Mayor Lisa Helps in the release. “A designated pedestrian priority zone on Government Street is a strategic priority of Council and will help increase foot traffic for businesses.”

Accessible parking stalls will be installed adjacent to the corridor. The City says it will be using a new and more convenient parking payment system. It will cost $2 per hour to park.

Private and commercial vehicles can access the area after 10 p.m. until noon the next day, with new passenger and commercial loading zones being installed adjacent to the corridor.

The 900-block will stay open to vehicles 24 hours a day.

To see a map of the revised loading zones and learn more about Build Back Victoria go to victoria.ca/BuildBackVictoria.

READ MORE: Government Street businesses need support, prepping for another tourist-free season

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