Urban planning and design resulting in accessible streets for all

Downtown Orillia Streetscape Master Plan

Downtown Orillia, Ontario celebrates cultural heritage with streets that act as a platform to inspire arts and culture. However, the City was looking to reimagine its streetscape given a need to balance demand for on street parking with generous, safe walkable sidewalks. 

Working with the City to establish the Streets for All master plan, we took advantage of seasonal events held within our study area to engage the public and visitors. Design sprint charettes with the study team, council, and technical teams also helped uncover challenges and opportunities. A key plan component is the Flex Street, a curbless street creating a consistent grade between building walls on either side—this multi-modal approach allows for accessibility, reduced vehicle speed, and has fewer obstacles to snow removal. Laneways transform into functional and inviting walkways with special lighting, furniture, public art, and other experience and safety features that connect the Flex Street to parking lots that act as tree nurseries for aging trees.

The Streets for All plan creates a distinctive sense of place using creative urban landscape design and engagement. It offers a blueprint for a thriving, resilient, inclusive, and accessible streetscape to welcome everyone safely, comfortably, and joyfully.