In the dense downtown neighbourhoods, more and more of our public spaces have been shut down so we can keep each other safe by physical distancing. We can't let our dogs and kids run amok in the local park so we need to access the streets and sidewalks ....

this is especially true for folks who don't have backyards - which in some central neighbourhoods is a lot of folks. Or folks who live in in small spaces. As weather gets nicer and the shutdown continues, walks are going to be essential to maintain our mental and physical health

at this point we absolutely need to look at opening up spaces reserved for cars so that people can move about safely. Why there isn't more support from the city admin for this is beyond me.

If we want folks to buy in to the lengthened shutdown, to be OK with sheltering in place for an extended period of time, we can't afford the continued benign neglect of urban neighbourhoods. We need smart, creative solutions that put people first

that means we need an end to the petty politics that have marked #ottpoli. It means that urban councillors' calls and suggestions need to be taken seriously. It means that the free movement of automobiles needs to be less of a priority