The city has unveiled a new pilot program to help make it easier for pedestrians and transit users to navigate the downtown core.
The new program entails a network of clear signs with consistent branding to help people find their way in the city. It will also include maps, smartphone apps and physical landmarks to help people find their way.
Coun. Jaye Robinson, chair of the city’s public works and infrastructure committee, made the announcement at a busy intersection in the heart of the financial district Monday morning.
“Wayfinding enhances the image of our city as a destination,” Robinson said.
She pointed out that other major cities such as London, New York and Vancouver have implemented similar signage.
“This program is going to improve our public realm through good design and the reduction of visual clutter,” Robinson said.
The Financial District BIA, St. Lawrence BIA, Tourism Toronto, Pan Am Host City Showcase program and the TTC are partnering with the city to deliver the pilot pedestrian and transit program.
While the program will help pedestrians and transit users in the downtown core initially, it will eventually be expanded to other parts of the city and will include a system of signs for park-goers, drivers and cyclists as well, she said.
Some of the other components will be rolled out over the next year and a half, the city said.
Speaking with CP24 about the program, Robinson said it will be easier to use than the PATH system that marks the underground network.
She conceded that she’s “always lost,” when trying to find her way through the PATH.
She added that the Financial District BIA has said they may rethink their strategy for marking the network as the wayfinding program unfolds.
The cost of the pilot program is $1.1 million. However the city’s partners on the project are picking half of that cost, Robinson said.
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