Church Street pedestrianization survey open until September 7; pilot cost ballooned to $500,000
The car-free Church Street pilot cost triple its original budget, but city officials are weighing feedback on whether to expand the project.
Sources · local media reports
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Toronto is seeking public feedback on its two-month Church Street pedestrianization pilot as the project faces scrutiny over its rising costs. The survey, open until September 7, will help guide the city's approach to future car-free street closures.
The pilot, running from June 19 through August 21 on Church Street between Wellesley and Alexander streets, was initially budgeted at $150,000. The actual cost has climbed to about $500,000 due to unexpected expenses including 24/7 private security and weekend police patrols.
Since the street closed to vehicles, the area has bustled with activity seven days a week. Toronto Centre Projects and the Church-Wellesley Village BIA designed the project around two landmark moments for the neighbourhood: the 50th anniversary of The 519 community centre and the Village's Cultural District designation. Picnic tables, Muskoka chairs, and outdoor activities including a miniature soccer net now fill the street.
The project aims to create safer conditions for pedestrians, including those with disabilities, while boosting local businesses. Residents and visitors can complete the survey online; business owners will receive a separate survey circulating in mid-August. Following a motion from Toronto City Councillor Josh Matlow, city council moved to identify other areas across Toronto where pedestrianization might make sense, though no specific locations have been named yet.
Which other Toronto streets are being considered for car-free trials, and when might they be piloted?
Will the city cover similar security and policing costs for future pedestrianization projects, or will those costs come from local BIAs?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
When is the Church Street pedestrianization survey open until?
The survey on Toronto's Church Street pedestrianization pilot is open until September 7, 2026.
How much did the Church Street pilot cost?
The Church Street pedestrianization pilot cost approximately $500,000, more than triple its original budget of $150,000.
What dates was Church Street closed to vehicles?
Church Street between Wellesley and Alexander streets was closed to vehicles from June 19 through August 21, 2026.
Why did the pilot cost increase so much?
The Church Street pilot's costs ballooned due to unexpected expenses including 24/7 private security and weekend police patrols.
