Brampton got its first rooftop patio last summer, and now downtown could be getting more coveted patio space.
As the Region of Peel prepares to replace aging water mains, the City of Brampton is in the planning stages for a massive downtown streetscaping project.
Right now, plans include narrowing the road to two lanes, adding bike lanes, and widening the sidewalks.
By widening the sidewalks it opens up the door for area restaurants, cafes, and other food destinations to have outdoor patios.
Currently, downtown Brampton has more than 40 restaurants and food destinations, quite a few of which fall within the new streetscaping zone.
The extra sidewalk space could be used for full-fledged patios like the ones in Ottawa, Hamilton, and Port Credit. Brampton could easily take cues from them, creating full patio spaces or simple bistro-style outdoor seating. Certainly both options would be an upgrade from the current situation.
The city is still conducting its necessary environmental assessments and research, so nothing is set in stone. It still has other decisions to make, including whether to tile the sidewalks and streets, install concrete or asphalt, choices of lighting, and more.
Regardless of what happens, the new streetscaping plans will give downtown Brampton a serious face lift and make it a place more people can enjoy on foot.
