The City of Vancouver has unveiled its first batch of “slow streets” meant to encourage safer walking and cycling during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The city plans to designate up to 50 kilometres of roadways as slow streets, to limit large gatherings and help people keep two metres apart while getting out of the house.
Those routes won’t be closed, but will have access limited to local traffic. Under the program, people will be allowed to walk on the roads, while vehicles will be expected to reduce speeds.
On-street parking will be preserved, as will access for emergency vehicles and waste collection. The first batch of streets includes a 12-kilometre route linking New Brighton Park and Queen Elizabeth Park via John Hendry Park.