June 6th and September 26th, 2010

Hamilton is joining a growing number of other North American cities such as New York, Portland, Winnipeg, Ottawa and Barrie to “Open Streets” for pedestrians, cyclists and shoppers to enjoy all that the street has to offer on two Sundays in early summer and fall of 2010.

On June 6^th, from 10am to 3pm, James Street North, from Cannon to Burlington, will be closed to automobiles, and open to a festival of people walking, cycling, rollerblading, watching demonstrations, trying a new activity, listening to music and bands, or shopping in the various shops and restaurants along the street.  

In March, a Hamilton Spectator article points to US studies that have “found associations between obesity and urban sprawl, suggesting that an increased dependency on cars decreases opportunities and motivation to walk”.  The article goes on to say that a new public health strategy is now “working with the municipality and schools to increase walkability, bike trails, active transportation and food policies” around the city. 

This wonderful initiative is being supported by representatives from Environment Hamilton, Green Venture, Smart Commute Hamilton, along with individuals from Public Health and local residents associations of Beasley, North End and Strathcona neighbourhoods.  Momentum has now started to gain among the businesses and communities along James St and beyond. 

Hamilton Open Streets Free Events

At various locations along the route, visitors can join in free events such as:

• Yoga – Yoga with Ona
• Zumba & Boot Camp - YWCA
• Giant Puppet making – Many Hands Art
• Chalk Drawing – Bryce Kambara with You Me Gallery
• Yellow Fish Road – BARC

There are even things for your bike to do:

• Bicycle repairs and maintenance – Downtown Bike Hounds
• Helmet Fitting – Bikes, Blades & Boards with Public Health

Information stations will be set up along the route and visitors will receive an Open Streets Passport to fill out throughout the day to guide you to all the events and for a chance to win some great prizes!