The CaféTO program was implemented in the summer of 2020 by the City of Toronto in partnership with multiple BIAs and their member bars, restaurants, and cafés. The program allowed our Junction food & beverage businesses to create a patio space for patrons while drawing an increase in foot traffic to support the entire business community.
The purpose of the program is to support all local businesses by driving increased foot traffic to the neighbourhood. More specifically, it provides more outdoor dining areas to help restaurants and bars create physical distancing for patrons during the summer/early fall months of the COVID-19 pandemic. To date, CaféTO is supporting 667 restaurants and 57 BIAs with expanded cafés on the sidewalk and curb lane. They have installed 364 curb lane closures, totalling 8,466 metres and 41 public parklets across the City.
The purpose of this study is to monitor the successes and challenges of the program, including its impact on the Junction business community. The data collected here may be used to inform the City of Toronto and provide information to the media, as required.
Study conducted August 18, 2020 to September 6, 2020. See results and highlights below.
