NEW DEAL FOR TORONTO short essay

It was my pleasure to have lived in Toronto from 1965-71, and to visit my parents and family who lived there since 1965. Toronto has developed into a multi-talented, multi-ethnic diversity of cultures. And I believe there should be opportunities to allow a free flow of movement for developing friendships.

Although my wife Esther and I now live in Truro, NS, I have visited my sister Susan many times in the ensuing years. Mammoth changes have taken place in Toronto and my wishful suggestions for Toronto could make it a better place to live.

Toronto needs to develop into more of a city for people; ie. a community of inter-action. The diversity of its people must highlight the best of its citizens to showcase the potential of their dreams, culture and hopes for a better future.

To begin: Completely close down a series of connecting streets to ALL motorized traffic, and create a swath through the city, from one end to another, with a Bicycle Path, Pedestrian Walk and Kiosks of Culture at strategic points.

Existing sidewalks in this Swath of Community can remain for normal walking purposes.

Develop two bicycle trails, one adjacent each sidewalk.

In the center of the road (on top of street car rails if need be) build a plexi- glass enclosed moveable strip, (as in some airports ie O’Hare in Chicago) for those unable to walk very well.

Kiosks of Culture can be permanent attractive showcases highlighting areas of concentration from a particular ethnic population. I believe there is also an opportunity for ethnic communities to be allowed to develop some key architectural designs to highlight their background and attract tourists to visit and learn about their culture.

The above suggestions represent some thoughts, from a former Torontonian.

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© Richard L. Provencher 2008