One of the key arguments the Preston BIA made for wider sidewalks throughout its territory was to permit sidewalk patios. These enliven the streets, put people on the sidewalks for hours at a time, and promote the sort of spontaneous interactions that make city life enjoyable and that are simply not possible in drive-everywhere-by-car “suburban” lifestyles. Much of Preston Street is predominately commercial in flavour, especially to the south end. Residences are still scattered amongst the businesses, and upstairs “above the store”.  But in the north end of the street, it is predominantly residential at ground floor and above, with … Continue reading Sidewalk Life, Sidewalk Patios