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Calgary has successful pedestrian mall

Re: “Crowds approach Government Street pedestrian-only pilot project with caution,” Aug. 14.

Re: “Crowds approach Government Street pedestrian-only pilot project with caution,” Aug. 14.

If Victoria wants an example of how to operate a dual-use area with pedestrian and vehicle access, it need only look as far as Stephen Avenue Mall in Calgary. There, vehicle access is limited to certain times of the day, and the cross-streets are open to vehicle traffic.

In the summer, particularly at lunchtime, Stephen Avenue Mall is thronged with tourists and office workers enjoying a pedestrian space.

A similar approach could work here in Victoria — during the day — maybe noon to 7 p.m. Close Government Street to traffic between Humboldt and Yates, but keep the east/west roads open, albeit with pedestrian lights where they cross Government.

Create a safe, welcoming space during the day and allow deliveries and vehicle access outside of the busy periods.

Jonathan Foweraker

Victoria