Pedestrian-friendly spaces in Galt and Hespeler return in May following public survey showing huge support

Cambridge, Ontario. (April 15, 2024) – The City of Cambridge, in partnership with the Downtown Cambridge and Hespeler Village Business Improvement Areas (BIAs), will once again close sections of Main Street and Queen Street to create pedestrian-friendly spaces for the community to enjoy this spring and summer.

“The Seasonal Road Closure Program creates places for people to connect with each other and enjoy time together. They inject life into the cores with music, dance, dining, shopping and so much more,” said Mayor Jan Liggett. “Residents and businesses have told us year-over-year that these pedestrian-friendly spaces are important for social wellbeing and the joy of interacting with others. I hope the community will continue to enjoy these spaces and the unique core areas the City has to offer.”

"We are thrilled to announce plans to once again close Lower Main Street from May 17th to October 14th, 2024 in Downtown Cambridge. This decision comes after the resounding success of previous road closures and the overwhelming support from our community and our BIA members for its continuation. This initiative aligns with our ongoing efforts to make downtown a vibrant place for visitors and locals alike to spend time. When you visit during the summer, Main Street transforms into a pedestrian-friendly area, teeming with lively patios, music and events. It truly feels like stepping into a European piazza right here in Cambridge!" Brian Kennedy, Executive Director.

“Hespeler Village is thrilled to host the 4th Annual season of #Walkqueen.  The 2024 season runs from May 31st to September 1st and will see the Village play host to a series of free cultural events, concerts and street dancing.  The Village is home to a host of new and exciting restaurants, and patios featuring scents and tastes from around the world!  Join us every weekend between Fridays from 4:00PM to Sundays at 5PM.” Cory de Villiers, Chair

The following streets will be closed:

• Main St. between Ainslie Street and Water Street, in Downtown Cambridge will be closed seven days a week starting Friday, May 17 through Monday, October 14.
• Queen Street East between Guelph Avenue and Tannery Street, in Hespeler Village will be closed weekends only starting Friday, May 31 to Sunday, September 1. Weekend closures will begin each Friday at 4 p.m. and end on Sunday at 5 p.m.

The Seasonal Road Closure Program was first introduced in 2020. Each year since then, the City has sought public feedback on the program and received an overwhelmingly positive response in favour of it. In December 2023, the City once again sought feedback from both the public and BIA membership. The results overall showed more than 75 per cent of respondents want to see the annual summer closures continue.

Businesses looking to expand their space as part of this program can apply online.
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