Barrie City Councillors have decided to make a portion of Lakeshore Drive for pedestrians and cyclists only… at least temporarily.
Starting on Thursday, the Northbound Lanes of Lakeshore drive between the Tiffin Boat Launch and Victoria streets will be closed to traffic.
The city says the decision will provide more space for people to be active and enjoy the outdoors, while maintaining a safe physical distance.
The detour for vehicles will be along Bradford Street and Victoria Street.
“With the nice weather finally arriving, we recognize people want to get outside, and your City wants to do what it can to provide extra space for people to enjoy the outdoors safely,” said Mayor Jeff Lehman. “If you’re feeling healthy, go enjoy our wonderful parks and waterfront—but don’t congregate and keep your distance from those outside your family. Use this new space on Lakeshore or walk on the grass—we have lots of public space, so let’s spread out and use all of it.”
Parking lots along Lakeshore Drive will still be accessible from southbound Lakeshore Drive.
The duration of the closure will be reviewed on a weekly basis based on traffic volumes as the Province gradually re-opens the economy.
Very excited to say we will be closing northbound lanes on Lakeshore to convert it to walking/cycling space! https://t.co/UIohvzDV5j
— Jeff Lehman (@jedi_lehman) May 12, 2020
COVID-19 Update for May 11th – Closing Lakeshore Drive to traffic to create space for walking and cycling, landfill reopening, loading zones on Dunlop Street, and improving case numbers. Stay Strong Barrie! pic.twitter.com/PN70OwtSHK
— Jeff Lehman (@jedi_lehman) May 11, 2020