Update: So I did follow-up on this today in person...and it does appears even with the planters there, there is enough public sidewalk left to drive a truck down (not that I would encourage that). Meaning the space between the planters and edge of the sidwalk is very generous in width indeed for entire length of this project Bloor E. side. So while my postion on planters remains, I'll have to walk this one back...therefore, I sit humble pied corrected. /sigh
It's nice to see but as with so many new buildings, they've managed to get important details backwards. The planting beds should be by the curb and the main part of the sidewalk should be right next to the storefronts. That would provide some buffer between pedestrians and car traffic and get people walking next to shops and window displays, allowing for window shopping. This simple relationship is how every traditional main street is designed. The way it's built, pedestrians are exposed to car traffic and separated from the retail. That makes it a less pleasant walking environment and worse for businesses.
Yes.
You mean the northeast end of downtown
