Communities for All

To support residents, decision makers, and key stakeholders in developing innovative solutions focused on creating healthier and happier communities.

The Town of Parry Sound hired 8 80 Cities to host a workshop focused on creating healthier and happier communities. The purpose of the workshop was to support residents, decision makers, and key stakeholders in developing innovative solutions in five focus areas: 1) creating vibrant parks and public spaces; 2) designing accessible walking facilities; 3) improving cycling infrastructure; 4) enhancing access to public transit, and; 5) implementing an Open Streets program.

The event began with presentations by Gil Penalosa and Emily Munroe, who spoke about the impact of Open Streets programs and shared best practices for fostering accessible, safe, and vibrant communities through public spaces and sustainable mobility.

One group focused on walkability developed an action plan to install a scramble intersection to enhance safety and accessibility.

One group focused on cycling proposed an extension of Parry Sound’s Fitness trail to improve connectivity and access.

One group planned an Open Streets program along a three-kilometre section of Bowes and James Streets, which would celebrate the Town’s winter season and bring residents together.

8 80 Cities developed a final report which summarizes key ideas generated during the workshop and highlights priorities that were established by the group that will help to guide next steps. The report also includes cycling, walking, and open streets maps as well as a quick reference guide on bikeability.