Contributed by Virginia Gallop, Executive Director, Cabbagetown BIA. Photo credit Marion Voysey Photography. We all know that old adage, and how rarely does it ever fail to be the case.
I’m not suggesting that the Cabbagetown Parkscape Installation was perfect, or that it wasn’t without its bumps and getting used to, but the reality is, it was very well received, and folks will be sad to see it go. At least that’s what we’re hearing from you.
Recently we launched our Mid-Way Survey, and if you haven’t had a chance to complete it, and would like to, you’ll find it on our website. www.cabbagetownto.com. Just look under the #cabbagetownparkscape tab.
What you’ve told us is:
“It’s so much cooler (temperature wise) to walk down parliament street. It makes me slow down and feel less rushed. My kids take time to climb, play in the sand. It’s lovely. “
“It was wonderful. Great atmosphere and cool vibe.”
“I love meeting up with friends and enjoying the parkscape. My husband hates it because he has to drive through it and I have to listen to him complain about it. Duct tape lol “-
OK, so we haven’t made everyone a fan.
What about the businesses? What have they had to say?
“●I feel like it has been a positive impact and experience for the neighbourhood, but that is difficult to measure.”
“It was a little difficult at first because we rely a lot on the area out front of our building as a safe drop off point for parents to leave their children, but that issue was taken into consideration and we were able to still have an area for drop off. The kids have really loved spending time out there, and it makes the entrance to the building feel really safe from the busy street. It beautifies the neighbourhood and makes it feel very welcoming.”
“Was indifferent before and still somewhat indifferent since it hasn’t affected our business. It is however nice to see people make use of the space, it gives our company more visibility/recognition. “
“Thought it would be good, now I see it’s awesome. I’m shocked at how much cooler this side of the street is because of a few baby trees.”
The Cabbagetown Parkscape was sponsored fully by CentreCourt & Fitzrovia, two apartment rental developers and with thanks to MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam for bringing that all together. The Cabbagetown BIA, aka Cabbagetown businesses paid for 7 day per week security, and our ongoing team of hard working street cleaners to keep the area clean. Several large garbage and recycling bins located within Parkscape encouraged visitors to dispose of their waste responsibly.
From our perspective, one of the best things Cabbagetown Parkscape provided was an opportunity to expand on our Live Music in the Patch initiative started in /21. We’ve added musical performances almost daily from classical cello to flamenco guitar, to soul, jazz and the phenomenal sounds of the Toronto All Star Big Band. And, you’ve loved it!
For the grand finale, we’re tee-ing up the Parkscape Promenade. This will take place on Sunday, September 11th, and will feature live music all day long, plenty of activities for the kids, and an opportunity to bask in the cool, green and shaded Parkscape for one last day. The road will be closed from and the fun starts at noon. Check out the back cover of this issue for more!
