Toronto's Church-Wellesley Village goes car-free in summer pilot project

Toronto will turn part of the Church-Wellesley Village into a pedestrian-only zone this summer. The trial runs from June 19 to August 21, 2023, after city council approved the plan with strong support. Residents and visitors have already shown enthusiasm for the car-free initiative. The pilot project passed through council with a decisive 20-4 vote. During the closure, Church Street will block north-south traffic between Wellesley and Alexander streets. East-west intersections, however, will remain open to vehicles.

The idea follows examples from other major cities. New York pedestrianized Times Square in 2009, while Montreal maintains year-round car-free streets and plans more closures this summer. European cities like Copenhagen, Paris, and London have also adopted similar schemes.

Local councillor Chris Moise called the move a first step toward making Toronto a 'first-class city.' Some officials hope the trial could lead to permanent or recurring pedestrian zones in other neighbourhoods if successful. Interest in the project has spread beyond the city, with inquiries coming from as far as North Bay. The eight-week closure aims to create a more walkable and community-focused space in the village. If the pilot succeeds, it could inspire broader changes across Toronto. The city will monitor public feedback and traffic impacts throughout the summer.