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Reclaiming Un-used Laneways into Artways

2400 laneways across Toronto are left unused--like alley ways being left dark and mysterious between buildings housing trash bins and rubbish.

Why not use art on walls to tell stories and bring people together?

A pilot project was done in South of West Hastings Vancouver, called -- Alley Oop, to recreate the reputation of unused laneways by turning them into interactive street-art hotspots. Within that project, $200,000 was budgeted by DVBIA and City of Vancouver for 2 additional laneway revitalization projects in 2016. An article by Forbes indicated that street art valuation often grows by +71% within 10 years, usually bringing local businesses up with it.

Similarly in Toronto, we wish that these art-filled alleys become places local residents and visitors can gather and enjoy in. Art brings communities together and create positive foot traffic for local businesses and brings harmony to neighborhoods through pride of local creations and talent.

We want you and your neighbours to take photos Alleys and Laneways that you think could turn into positive spaces!

Vote on which option you like most!

Kensington Market
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18 participants
Alley Oop (Vancouver)
Nicholson lane (St. Lawrence Neighbourhood)
Nicholson lane (St. Lawrence Neighbourhood)

Open for participation

Phases

Phases overview
Phase 1: Setting the Stage (ideation, background & analysis)
Setting the Stage (ideation, background & analysis)
Phase 2: Community Engagement
Community Engagement
Phase 3: Detailed Design Development
Detailed Design Development
Phase 4: Award of Construction Contract
Award of Construction Contract
Phase 5: Art Installation/ Construction
Art Installation/ Construction

Setting the Stage (ideation, background & analysis)

April 14, 2023 - October 1, 2024

Can you think of the last alleyway or laneway where you thought, this needs an update or a splash of color?

In this stage we want invite community members from each neighborhood to upload photos, intersections, and addresses of alleyway/ laneway locations that you think would make good revitalized artscapes.

Don't forget to vote one ones you like!

We want to collect as many locations and opinions as possible to create a best list of possible outcomes.

8 contributions

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Cottage Lane

Alexander Place - runs between Maitland and Alexander St

, 1 comment

Maitland Terrace and Chechalk Lane

, 1 comment

Cottage Lane

, 1 comment

Chechalk Lane

Mural at TPL Parliament Branch

, 1 comment

Farquhars Lane

, 4 comments

Central Hospital Lane