Innovation From Other Cities: Flexible Streets in Kitchener, Ontario

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In 2004, the City of Kitchener took the first steps to transform King Street at the heart of its downtown core. The project initially began as an initiative to upgrade street lighting. However, through a series of public engagement sessions the project grew into a major overhaul of the entire streetscape.

In 2007, Council approved the final design, which was built around creating a flexible space. Rolled curbs and removable bollards allow King Street to be reconfigured as a public open space for events, or for parking spaces to be increased in the colder months.

Today, the street plays host to a wide variety of civic events. Festivals such as Oktoberfest, Cruising on King (classic cars), and the Kitchener Blues Festival can draw upwards of 40,000
people to the street.

Year Complete: 2010.

Total Budget: $10 million

Project Length: 800m

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