Fewer cars. More cyclists, pedestrians, and patios.
London is once again putting the brakes on through traffic on Dundas Place.
Starting Monday, vehicles will not be allowed to enter the flex street from either Wellington or Ridout streets. The aim is to create a safer space downtown for cyclists and pedestrians during the busy construction season, as well as reinforce Dundas Place as a gathering spot for patios, entertainment, and events.
“This is the third year the traffic configuration is being implemented, as part of efforts to decrease the volume of motor vehicles using Dundas Place as an east/west route for crossing downtown during core construction,” city officials said in a statement. “Decreasing the volume of cars during the summer months has been found to support comfort and safety of cyclists and pedestrians while contributing to better patio experiences on Dundas Place.”
A map outlines temporary restrictions on Dundas Place. Map provided by the City of London.
To keep vehicles from entering the flex street, barriers will be installed at Ridout Street North and Wellington Street. Traditionally these barriers have consisted of large planters. Drivers picking up takeout or making deliveries to one of the many restaurants or businesses along the four-block stretch will still be able to turn onto Dundas from Talbot, Richmond, and Clarence streets. Vehicles will also be able to exit the street from Wellington and Ridout. Temporary park and pick-up zones will still be available and there is one-hour free parking at designated parking locations on Dundas Place.
Drivers heading east and west through the core are advised to use Dufferin Avenue or York Street as their main route.
For pedestrians and cyclists, the flex street will remain unrestricted and those peddling can still use the two general traffic lanes for east-west connections, city officials said.
The temporary traffic restrictions on Dundas Place will be in place until November.
