The City has completed the installation of decorative fencing and planter boxes next to businesses on George, Water and Charlotte streets that have signed up for the expanded patios this year, using on-street parking in front of their businesses.
The patio season changes also means that Hunter Street between George and Aylmer streets has become a one-lane, one-way street westbound to add more patio and pedestrian space.
As part of the reconfiguration of the section of Hunter Street, Chambers Street is temporarily closed at its south end at Hunter Street and will be two-way for the duration of the closure.
This is the third summer that the City is putting in place temporary changes to downtown public space to allow for more patio and pedestrian area. This year’s design is similar to last year’s successful design, except for one change: Charlotte Street between George Street and Aylmer Street North is remaining a two-lane, two-way street this year.
In other areas of the downtown, expanded patios are put into on-street parking spaces next to businesses that choose to participate in the program.
Beyond the COVID-19 pandemic public health considerations, providing additional outdoor space for downtown businesses and visitors is another way to support businesses that are recovering from the disruptions caused by the pandemic, says the City.
For a second year, the City will coordinate the the Renaissance on Hunter public art project. This project allows successful, local artists to complete murals on Hunter Street. The Road Mural and Artists' Gardens projects are expected to be in place by early July, weather permitting.
The City of Peterborough consulted with Peterborough Public Health and Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area through the design and implementation of the temporary downtown public space changes.
