Burlington's Play Street Program Designed to Promote Community Play
Did you know the City of Burlington has a Play Street program that's designed to empower local residents to come together and promote community play?The program, launched in spring 2019, offers the ability for weekly, local street closures that encourage the use of neighbourhood streets for safe, active play and social interaction between neighbours of all ages. And it's available year-round.Steps to Hosting a Play Street in your Neighbourhood1. Identify the Play Street locationStreet closure considerations:
- The Play Street should be no more than one block long;
- The street should be a residential street, not a major road and should be free from an active bus route; and
- There must be clear visibility from each intersection.
2. Complete the Online Play Street ApplicationApplication must be completed a minimum of six weeks before the start of your planned Play Street event.3. Complete FormsOnce your application is approved, please look for an email as you will receive paperwork that will need to be signed and returned, including:
- Schedule B Street Closure Agreement;
- Street Closure Permit;
- Sample notification letter; and
- Neighbourhood Consent Form.
4. Plan Your EventBuild a team that will help you with promotion and planning and include neighbours in decision-making. Find ways to include older adults, youths, children and parents. Include activities where all ages and abilities can participate together.
For more details and information, visit burlington.ca/playstreet.MY TAKE:This is a fantastic program the City of Burlington offers because not only does it promotes a sense of community among neighbours, but it also encourages residents of all ages to get outside and stay active, enjoying the environment around us.