Open Streets Windsor returns Oct. 17

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The City of Windsor event that temporarily bans cars from eight kilometres of local streets is coming back.

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Open Streets Windsor 2021 is set to take place on Oct. 17, as announced by Mayor Drew Dilkens on Wednesday.

“One of Windsor’s favourite annual community traditions. I’m certainly happy to welcome it back this year,” said Dilkens at a news conference in the Ford City Parkette on Drouillard Road — the easternmost limit of the designated event route.

The 2020 edition of Open Streets Windsor was cancelled due to COVID-19 precautions — a decision that Dilkens said was “absolutely the right thing to do,” given the circumstances at the time.

COVID-19 protocols such as physical distancing will be implemented this year, as well as personal protective equipment for volunteers and event staff.

As with previous editions, Open Streets Windsor 2021 will stretch from Sandwich Street in the west end to Ford City in the east end.

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The event time runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — a four-hour period — during which no automobiles will be allowed on the route, except for a handful of key intersections.

There will be eight activity hubs along the route, each featuring opportunities for arts, culture, education, live entertainment, and participatory fun for all ages.

The event is meant to encourage active transportation methods such walking and cycling.

Due to this year’s event date falling two weeks prior to Halloween, the public is invited to attend in costume or wearing season-appropriate decorations.

“Have fun, and show us your best, but remember: Safety first,” said Michelle Staadegaard, the city’s manager of culture and events.

Costumes should not limit the mobility or impede the sight of the wearer.

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Open Streets Windsor began in 2016, and initially had longer hours.

Staadegaard said the current format of four hours of dedicated event time without automobile traffic was decided upon with the input of organizers and community partners.

“The road closures actually start at 9 a.m. … and will be back open at 3 p.m. We seemed to hit a really good mark for our activity organizers,” she said.

Although the focus of the event is free outdoor recreation, many Windsor business owners stand to benefit from the increased pedestrian traffic.

John Alvarez, co-owner of F&B hospitality group (Grand Cantina, Taloola Cafe, Slices Pizza, and the new Funky Chow Kitchen), said he’s excited that Open Streets Windsor presents the public more opportunities to support local businesses. “Things are getting better, and I’m really optimistic about how things are going.”

For more details about Open Streets Windsor 2021, visit www.openstreetswindsor.ca.

Volunteers and community partners are still needed. Those interested in helping can email openstreets@citywindsor.ca.