We’ve been approached once again by the organizers of Open Streets Toronto with the hope that our Danforth BIA would participate in a one Sunday trial next September 2016.  It would be the 3rd year that Open Streets Toronto hosts Sunday mornings where key streets in our city are completely open to pedestrians – no cars allowed. Interest and public participation in Open Streets Toronto has been gaining steadily over the past two years and it is anticipated to continue to grow in 2016.

Open Streets Toronto offers the public a unique opportunity to walk or bike through some of the City’s great neighbourhoods without the worry of traffic.  And on the flip side, the Open Streets Toronto concept offers local businesses an opportunity to promote your retail or restaurant establishment to new consumers in a unique experience. 

Two years ago we asked the Danforth BIA members to vote on participating in this event.  The majority of you voted in favour.  Unfortunately at that time Open Streets wasn’t able to afford the costs of coming to the east end of the city. They are now more established and are able to cover the costs associated with expanding the event to the east end.

In 2015, Open Streets Toronto held two events: Aug. 17 and Aug. 31.  The combined number of people who attended the events was 45,000.

Based on their research:

• On average, participants spent just under 2 hours at Open Streets Toronto
• 53% of participants became aware of a new restaurant
• 26.5% of participants became aware of a new retailer
• 20.5% of participants became aware of other businesses including coffee shops, spas etc.
• 57.5% of participants spent money while attending Open Streets Toronto

PLEASE VOTE:

We are asking each of you to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. either a YES or NO vote on the following:

• One trial Sunday participation – taking place on a Sunday in September 2016.  We specifically asked for a September date in order to avoid further road closures during the prime summer months.
• Danforth Avenue from Broadview to Jackman Avenues would be closed to traffic
• The event would take place from 9am to 1pm

Votes must be received on or before FRIDAY, November 27, 2015 to qualify.  If you have questions prior to voting, please let us know.