Heavy police presence as 80-plus events take over downtown core this weekend
Posted September 9, 2022 9:42 pm.
Last Updated September 9, 2022 9:45 pm.
Toronto police say they will have an increased visible presence in the downtown core this weekend to maintain public safety and mitigate traffic flow challenges.
With more than 80 scheduled events planned across the city, officials say residents can expect to see dedicated resources in the downtown core, the entertainment district, Ontario Place and the waterfront area.
Two of the biggest events going on this weekend is the Toronto International Film Festival which will see King Street West closed to traffic from York Street to Spadina Avenue and Richmond Street closed from John Street to Widmer Street.
Police also say residents can expect increased pedestrian traffic along King Street and around multiple festival venues throughout the weekend.
As well, the Rolling Loud international music festival is taking place at Ontario Place this weekend. That will see three eastbound lanes on Lake Shore Boulevard closed to traffic between British Columbia Road and Strachan Avenue while Lake Shore Boulevard westbound will be reduced from three lanes to two. Traffic will be diverted off Lake Shore Boulevard on to British Columbia Road. Police say the curb lane will be allocated for pedestrians and cyclists.
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Concerts at Scotiabank Arena (the Eagels and Daddy Yankee) along with several scheduled charity walks and runs and demonstrations will mean potential delays and temporary road closures.
“Thousands of people will be attending events across the city and the Service is expecting increased activity in the evening and early-morning hours at restaurants and nightclubs,” police said, adding the public should consider using public transit were possible.
GO transit service adjustments
GO transit says it will be adjusting service this weekend to account for an increase in the usual number of passengers as well as potential traffic delays within the downtown core.
As a result, GO bus routes 16, 21 and 31 will detour to train stations from 9 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday due to the road closures along Lakeshore Boulevard. Route 16 will connect with train service at Aldershot GO station while Route 21 and 31 will connect with train service at Port Credit GO station.
The Barrie replacement buses will continue to operate in and out of USBT this weekend, but will use Highway 407, 404 and the Don Valley Parkway.
“Transit continues to be the safest, most convenient and economical option to get to events,” said Metrolinx. “Customers should make sure they plan ahead and give themselves extra travel time.”
