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Concrete medians and plastic uprights are in place at each intersection along Bernard Avenue in Kelowna, and fencing is stretching out into the street. It signals the start of something new. Most people we spoke to are optimistic that it will make it a more inviting place to spend time.
Even people driving past in their cars are pleased to see the change. "It's the best thing going, " said one man behind the wheel of the sedan. "I think it's good for the summer and the tourists and us locals too," said a woman, driving her van across Bernard Avenue at Water St.
Audrey Surrao was out setting out tables for the expanded patio for Sunny's Modern Diner. She's positive, but quick to point out, that businesses are paying for space.
"People thought this was being offered for free to all of the businesses," said Surrao, "and it is not." But she likes the idea anyway. "We have to incur some costs in order to see some revenue."
"It helps the community come together", said a woman from Thunder Bay as she strolled Bernard, "it helps the businesses resurge."
"I think it's going to be good for store owners," said a man seated outside The Bread Company. "I'm for it."
But the pair of bikers who hold court in front of Blenz Coffee, don't like the idea. "I think it's stupid," said one. He's concerned about people with mobility challenges. "What happens to them?"
"I think it's a good idea," said one of the cyclists enjoying the space set aside for bicycles down the centre of the street. Another said it will be a great change for a downtown that has been trending in the wrong direction.
"If it brings more people down," he said, "then that's better."
"Downtown needs to be revitalized and have people here to enjoy it," said another man. "I've been to Europe and that and this is the standard," he said.
Bernard Avenue from the waterfront to St. Paul St. will remain off-limits to traffic for the next 10 weeks.
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