The City of Windsor is actively seeking public input on a significant proposal that could reshape downtown traffic patterns: converting several one-way streets back to two-way traffic. This initiative, which aims to enhance safety and stimulate local business, was the focal point of a public information session held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025.
Proposed Streets for Conversion
The streets under consideration for this major change are primarily located in Ward 3 and include Janette, Bruce, Dougall, Victoria, Pelissier, Glengarry, Alymer, Pitt, and Chatham. In Ward 4, Lincoln Road and Gladstone Avenue are also being reviewed. According to city officials, the overarching goal is to improve the "livability and to create a safer, more active downtown."
Arguments in Favor of Two-Way Streets
Proponents of the conversion, including Ward 3 Councillor Renaldo Agostino, argue that the shift is about much more than just traffic. "It's not only about traffic calming — it's about boosting activity downtown, giving businesses more exposure, and making streets safer and more walkable," Agostino stated. The primary benefits cited by supporters are:
- Slowing vehicle traffic for enhanced safety.
- Increasing pedestrian safety and walkability.
- Providing greater visibility and exposure for local businesses.
Resident Concerns and Opposition
Despite the potential benefits, the proposal has been met with skepticism and concern from some residents. At the open house, a clear message was heard from those who believe "These streets should stay one-way."
Long-time Pitt Street resident Jim Meunier, whose family has lived in the area for over 70 years, pointed out the historical design of the neighborhoods. "These homes were built in the 1900s," Meunier explained. "They didn't include parking lots or garages, so everyone parks on the street. We don't want traffic." He emphasized that streets like Jeanette and Pitt were "deliberately" designed for one-way traffic.
Cyclist and Ward 4 resident Christian Eschbach voiced safety worries, stating, "It's more about road safety for me. If they start converting some of these streets, that means for me, as a cyclist, I've got less space to deal with or I'm causing more chaos with the cars. I'd love for the city to leave the roads that are one-ways as one-ways."
Other concerns raised by residents included potential issues with garbage pickup, the loss of valuable on-street parking, and increased congestion, especially near already high-traffic areas.
Historical Context and Next Steps
The one-way system has defined downtown Windsor for decades. Major north-south corridors like Victoria Avenue and Pelissier Street were first converted to one-way in the late 1940s to improve traffic flow out of the core. East-west streets such as Chatham and Pitt followed suit in the mid-1960s, a period marked by declining business activity.
Councillor Agostino stressed that this is just the beginning of a consultative process. "This is just the first step," he said. "We want feedback from residents and business owners." The city is now collecting this vital public feedback to inform its final decision on whether to proceed with the street conversions.
