Beginning April 3, 2020, the City of London will enhance measures to make it easier for pedestrians to follow physical distancing guidelines of at least two metres from others.
Safely maintaining physical distance is extremely important at all times when travelling on London’s roadways and multi-use pathways – especially on bridges and when passing each other.
Here are the additional actions that are underway:
Road closures:
Blackfriars Bridge and the east bound curb lane of Kensington Bridge (Riverside Drive across the Thames River) will be closed to motor vehicles until further notice to provide more space for people walking and biking at these potentially busy locations. Traffic flow in both directions on Kensington Bridge will continue. Pedestrians and cyclists are reminded to use caution and maintain a minimum of two metres physical distance.
Bridges & pedestrian tunnels:
Pedestrians are now required to stop for oncoming pedestrians and wait until the sidewalk is clear before crossing some bridges and pedestrian tunnels where sidewalks are narrow. Signage with instructions will be installed to make Londoners aware of locations impacted by this change.
One-way sidewalks:
Sections of the Highbury Avenue sidewalks over the railway bridges will be deemed one-way for pedestrian traffic (one-side for southbound users, one-side for northbound users) where it can be difficult to maintain a two-metre distance when meeting another pedestrian. Londoners approaching these areas will be notified by signs at the nearest signalized intersection so they can proceed in their desired direction of travel.
Parks, trails & amenities:
As a reminder, all outdoor play structures including playgrounds, multi-use courts and skate parks are closed. As well, City sports fields, golf courses, off-leash dog parks and community gardens are closed. The City will be enforcing these closures.
Parks, green space, trails and pathways remain open for walk-through only. Londoners are reminded to maintain physical distance of a minimum two metres and take turns when using narrow boardwalks and bridges on all pathways and trails.
The City of London is constantly reassessing COVID-19 developments to ensure the safety and well-being of residents and our staff. The conditions in local road, park pathway and cycling networks continue to be monitored by staff.
The City will be actively monitoring outdoor spaces over the weekend. Individuals who are not complying with closures and Provincial or Federal orders will face fines. To report a concern, contact COVIDOrderConcerns@london.ca or 519-661-4660.
For information about impacts of COVID-19 on City programs and services, visit www.london.ca/covid-19.